Site archéologique Lattara – Musée Henri Prades

About the museum

The ancient site of Lattara was discovered in 1963 after deep ploughing. The first excavations, carried out by Henri Prades and the Groupe archéologique Painlevé, showed the site's value for studying Gallic civilisation in the Midi and its development at the beginning of the Roman period. The State and the commune of Lattes became owners of the site in 1974.

The museum is housed in the former Mas Saint-Sauveur, a farmhouse that belonged to the family of the painter Frédéric Bazille in the 19th century. Opened in 1986 and awarded the “Musée de France” label, it was run by the commune of Lattes before being transferred to the Métropole de Montpellier in January 2006. Archaeological storerooms were set up in 2001 in the former Bonnier cellar, on the edge of the site.

Since September 15, 2018, a new museum route on two levels presents a chronological and thematic journey from the Neolithic to Late Antiquity and the Middle Ages. The port of Lattara, active from the 6th century BCE to the 3rd century, was a place of exchange with the Etruscans, Greeks, Iberians and Romans. The rooms show ceramics, glass urns, tools, jewellery, coins and objects from the Saint-Michel necropolis, as well as a full-scale reconstruction of a Gallic house.

Highlights

• New route since 2018 across two levels, with multimedia displays
• Reconstruction of a Gallic house at full scale (1:1)
• Attic ceramics and Etruscan objects bearing witness to the trade of the port of Lattara
• Mouth-blown glass urns and objects from the Saint-Michel necropolis (76 tombs)
• Audio guide to the permanent collection, accessible via QR code

Permanent exhibition

• Lattara, un port gaulois en Méditerranée – Chronological and thematic route across two levels, from the Neolithic to the Middle Ages, focusing on everyday life in ancient Lattara.

Founded

1986

Operated by

Montpellier Méditerranée Métropole

Visitors per year

approx. 30,387

Admission & discounts

Free admission: First Sunday of every month; European Heritage Days, Museum Night, European Archaeology Days and National Architecture Days

The prices shown apply to the permanent collection; temporary exhibitions have their own rates (full price €5, reduced rate €3). Free admission also for under-26s with a Pass Métropole, Service civique volunteers, job seekers and social benefit recipients (on proof), ICOM or ICOMOS members, journalists and annual pass holders. Payment in cash, by cheque or by bank card.

Accessibility

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

Both levels of the permanent collection are accessible by ramps or lift, and a wheelchair can be lent at reception on request. A disabled parking space is available within the museum grounds. Mediation offers: tactile models and facsimiles, leaflets in Braille and large print, adapted audio guides with induction loop and sign-language videos, an easy-read booklet, and the tactile tour “Permis de toucher” since 2014.

Kids & families

Great for kids & families

• Family tours & workshops
• Activity booklet, scavenger hunt or kids’ audio guide
• Hands-on stations
• Kids’ birthday parties

The visitor services department offers guided tours, historical animations and workshops on ancient techniques (wall painting, Neolithic pottery, oil lamps, mosaic, excavation). A puzzle booklet “Lattara à la loupe” and printable games are available. Birthday parties for children aged 8 to 13 (6 to 10 children) take place on Wednesdays from 14:00 to 16:00 and must be booked three weeks in advance.

Getting there & parking

By car: motorway A709, exit 30 “Montpellier Sud” or exit 31 “Montpellier Ouest”, then follow signs to Lattes and “Site archéologique Lattara”.

Amenities & dining

• Museum shop
• Coat check

Bookshop with scientific publications and object reproductions; drinks and snack vending machine. A café room is used for children's birthday parties and private events.

Events & venue rental

• Spaces for rent
• Private parties

Up to 145 guests.

Auditorium with 145 seats, café for 50 people for a cocktail reception or seated meal, and garden. Events must end by 20:00 unless specially agreed. Rates: €350 for the auditorium or café, €1,000 for the auditorium, garden and café.

Plan your visit