Musée de la faïence et du patrimoine martrais.
In place of the small garden in front of the tourist office stood the former town hall and its adjoining prison. In 1954, you could still see the façade of the prison, which was mainly used after the Revolution.
Three old houses followed, including that of a grocer and a wheelwright. This block of buildings, renovated in 2006, now houses the Centre d?interprétation du patrimoine martrais or Musée de la faïence. Here, you'll discover spaces dedicated to Martres- Tolosane?s earthenware makers and other craftsmen and artists, the history of the Gallo-Roman villa of Chiragan and the legend of Saint Vidian.
The designs of Martres earthenware have evolved considerably since 1739, but the makers still honor traditional motifs, notably the Martres rose and the ibis, the village?s symbolic bird.
Enter the heart of the Musée de la Faïencerie and discover its heritage! Pieces, collections and the history of earthenware, a presentation of the Gallo-Roman villa at Chiragan, the battle of Saint-Vidian, and a room dedicated to the famous annual Salon des Arts et du Feu.
The Musée de la Faïencerie emerges like an enchanted treasure trove where the art and history of ceramics come to life. Nestled in this captivating space, visitors are transported on a journey through the ages, exploring the techniques and creations that have marked the history of earthenware. Carefully curated exhibits present a range of pieces, from the earliest stages of craftsmanship to the most contemporary artistic achievements. Each object on display, whether precious tableware, decorative creations or functional works of art, reveals the evolution of the craft.
In front of the building, you'll appreciate the resin sculpture "La femme et l?enfant moulant une poterie" by Toulouse artist Jean-Louis TOUTAIN (1948-2008). You can discover the village by watching a short 5-minute film presenting the village and its history.
