Just twenty minutes from Saint-Gaudens, enjoy an immersion in ancient Roman times as you discover a beautiful Gallo-Roman villa! You’ll get a feel for the opulent lifestyle of the period as you stroll through its many rooms. To learn more, head for the archaeological site of Montmaurin!
Opulence and indulgence: the décor of the Lassalle Villa in Montmaurin
Welcome to the small village of Montmaurin, where you’ll discover an exceptional archaeological site, Villa Lassalle. Dating from the 1st century, this incredible aristocratic residence stretches over more than a hectare (2.5 acres): plenty of room to ramble and imagine you’re a Roman patrician!
To begin your discovery, pick up a site plan at the reception desk: it’s an essential guide to help you find your way around the ruins of the villa.
Discover the secrets of the Roman Villa of Montmaurin
Once you enter the archaeological site, you may explore to your heart’s desire and imagine the former luxury of this fabulous villa. With more than 150 rooms and a wing entirely dedicated to thermal baths, this is a very ancient leisure palace!
Listen attentively to the comments of your guide and you’ll learn about the underfloor heating and running water systems, as well as the ancient toilets (almost unheard-of at the time)! As you examine the details of each room, you’ll see that many of the floors feature mosaics… You’ll get the chance to admire a remarkably well-preserved fresco that hints at the former lavishness of the villa.
Consider that all the walls were made of marble, and that fountains and courtyard gardens created little oases of freshness throughout the villa… A little paradise designed for the utmost well-being of its inhabitants!
Archaeological museum and La Hillere site
Since 2020, the archaeological museum, located in the centre of the village, has been giving visitors an insight into the complex history of Montmaurin and the richness of its heritage, by presenting a selection of ancient and prehistoric objects found in and around the town. Spread over 3 rooms, you can discover objects from everyday Roman life, as well as reproductions of exceptional local prehistoric artefacts: the Venus of Lespugue, the pre-Neanderthal mandible from Montmaurin and a gigantic cave lion found below the village.
To round off your visit, discover the ancient site of La Hillère. La Hillère, the second villa in Montmaurin, is a remarkable site, built at the entrance to the Gorges de la Save around a resurgence of the river. Although this villa is more fragmented than the remarkable villa at Lassalles, several mosaics have been unearthed on this site, including one measuring 34 m². They are now preserved in the chapel of Notre-Dame, next to the archaeological site.
Our top picks at the Gallo-Roman Villa of Montmaurin
- The Villa of Montmaurin is one of the largest known Gallo-Roman villas in France.
- The bucolic setting of the Villa of Montmaurin invites you to a relaxing stroll through the surrounding countryside.
- Don’t miss Montmaurin’s theme days (archaeological day, Gallo-Roman day), events that offer a chance to participate in various workshops.
Prepare your trip
Opening periods:
From 1st June to 31st August:
Villa de Lassalles: open Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 12.30pm and 2pm to 6pm.
Archaeological Museum: Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 6pm.
Villa de la Hillère: from 10 July to 31 August on Wednesdays and Saturdays at 4pm.
Archaeological site permanently visible from an elevated car park.
From 1st September :
Villa de Lassalles: open Wednesday to Sunday by prior arrangement (by telephone on 05.61.88.39.94 or directly at the museum reception desk)…
Archaeological Museum: Wednesday to Sunday, 10am to 12.30pm and 2pm to 5.30pm.
Villa de la Hillère: open Wednesday to Sunday by prior arrangement (by telephone on 05.61.88.39.94 or directly at the museum reception desk).
Tours available:
- The guided tour (by reservation 15 days in advance) lasts approximately one hour.
- A self-guided tour takes approximately 30 minutes.
- Pick up a site plan at the entrance (available in French, English, German, Spanish and Dutch).
Rates:
- Regular rate: €5
- Reduced rate: €4
- Groups (of at least 20 people): €4
- School groups: €20
- Free for visitors under the age of 18
Practical information:
- Dogs are not admitted (except for guide and assistance dogs)
- Picnic area on-site
Contact
Villa gallo-romaine – 31350 Montmaurin
Tél : 0 05 61 88 39 94
Site web : www.montmaurin-archeo.fr
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