Montans is located a stone's throw from Gaillac, on the banks of the Tarn. The site, occupied since prehistoric times, is a remarkable excavation site for understanding the history of the region and its successive populations.
A prehistoric story
The location of the place, naturally defended by its position overlooking the Tarn and the Rieutort stream, made it a site suitable for habitation since prehistoric times.
Excavations show traces of human occupation from prehistoric times, and the settlement continued into the Iron Age (1100 BC). A Gallic oppidum stood there in the second Iron Age (La Tène period. -450 BC).
The creation of pottery is rooted in the history of the place. The presence of alluvium and limestone on a road that was already a means of communication at that time favored the development of pottery and its trade.
The Roman era
The Roman occupation would amplify this phenomenon and Montans would become one of the main production centers of sigillata (fine, high-quality ceramics, intended for table service, which are characterized by a glaze and a red color) of the Roman Empire. In addition to the production of sigillata, so-called "common" ceramics were also produced, as well as amphorae dedicated to the transport of wine already produced locally, as well as building materials, such as bricks and tiles.
The maritime routes of the Tarn and then the Garonne facilitated trade, and numerous Montans pottery and ceramics can be found throughout western France, as far as Spain, Brittany, and Great Britain.
Although today potters no longer work in Montans, the town still has winegrowers who are passionate about their land and who continue the work started by the Romans a long time ago!
This rich past and numerous excavations will be at the origin of the creation of the Archaeological Center, which will bring these past eras back to life for you, through exhibitions, workshops and productions.
