Amphoralis

About the museum

Amphoralis was a large Gallo-Roman potters’ workshop, active from the 1st to the 3rd century AD on about three hectares. Ceramic fragments were spotted there in the 1960s, and excavations took place from 1976 to 1997 under the direction of archaeologist Fanette Laubenheimer. The whole site has been preserved thanks to support from the commune and the region in buying the land.

The workshop mainly produced wine amphorae in large series from the mid-1st century onward, especially the “Gauloise 4” type, which was exported throughout the Roman world, as well as tiles, lamps and other objects. Over time, around ten kilns were in use, up to seventeen in all, but never all at once. Workers’ houses and burials of very young children were also found.

The museum opened in December 1992 above the excavated areas. Its six-hectare park includes reconstructed kilns and buildings, a potters’ garden, an arboretum and workshops for visitors. Since 2021, the site has been managed by the public body Narbo Via.

Highlights

• Gallo-Roman potters’ workshop, 1st–3rd centuries
• Reconstructed kilns and buildings
• Production of “Gauloise 4” wine amphorae
• 6-hectare park with potters’ garden and arboretum
• Workshops for visitors

Permanent exhibition

• Site de production d'amphores – A route through a Gallo-Roman potters’ workshop, with reconstructed kilns, buildings and hands-on workshops in the park.

Founded

1992

Operated by

EPCC Narbo Via

Visitors per year

approx. 13,080

Admission & discounts

Free admission: First Sunday of the month, October to May.

Free admission, on proof, for recipients of minimum social benefits, people with disabilities and their companion, asylum seekers, the press, cultural tourism professionals and teachers preparing a visit. Online tickets are available on the Narbo Via website.

Accessibility

• Wheelchair accessible
• Elevator: no information
• Accessible restroom: no information
• Accessible parking
• Service dogs welcome: no information
• Tactile models & exhibits: no information
• Sign language tours: no information
• Easy-to-read materials: no information
• Audio description: no information

The site is accessible. Free loan, while stocks last: a wheelchair, seat canes, large-print booklets and magnifying glasses. Large car park with reserved spaces.

Kids & families

Great for kids & families

• Family tours & workshops

Workshops and activities for families, for example the Muséofête on October 20, 2026, from age 3. Free admission for under-18s.

Getting there & parking

By car from Narbonne: D13 to Cuxac-d’Aude, then D1118 to Sallèles-d’Aude, or D607 to Saint-Marcel-sur-Aude and then D1118. At the village entrance, follow the Amphoralis signs. The site is close to the junction canal, where boats can moor, and holds the “Accueil Vélo” label.

Amenities & dining

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Events & venue rental

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Plan your visit