History, A must-see
article | Reading time4 min
The Villa Lassalles is surprising in its grandeur: it's one of the largest Gallo-Roman dwellings known in France. The remains of its thermal baths are exceptionally well preserved. A must-see on your visit to Montmaurin!
The pools, places of care and exercise
The layout of the Villa Lassalles reveals a symmetrical plan with several successive spaces: the entrance peristyle, the guest quarters and the seigneurial residence.
On the northern side, however, one section stands out: the spa wing. Entirely devoted to water and leisure, the thermal baths are organized into several areas.
As with the public baths, there are several pools, each with its own temperature and virtues. The frigidarium (cold-water pool) is shallow. Next door, the caldarium (heated water room) and the tepidarium require the installation of a heating system, the hypocaust.
Pipes, through which air heated by a furnace circulates, run under the floor and heat the air, or the pool. Romans begin this ritual with the coldest bath, then move on to the lukewarm bath, followed by the hottest. After cleansing the skin, they move from the hottest to the coldest baths to complete the session.
Going to the baths was part of everyday life for Roman citizens. The baths were traditionally associated with changing rooms and a gym. In Montmaurin, two spaces can be associated with these functions. An unusual shower or latrine could also be added.
Designed forotium It's possible that one of the rooms in this complex was once a library.
Mathieu Soudais / Centre des monuments nationaux
The nymphaeum, an idyllic setting
Before entering the pools, a gallery of columns, surrounding a basin, offers a setting that is still enchanting today.
This pool was filled in to create an additional garden. During archaeological excavations, fragments of a sculpted ensemble were unearthed: they are said to depict the Myth of Adonis.
Do you know this story?
Born of incestuous love between the King of Cyprus and his daughter, Adonis is threatened by his father. He is saved by Aphrodite, who entrusts him to Persephone. Incredibly beautiful, Aphrodite falls in love with him.
This landscaped ensemble, with gardens, fountains and sculpture, demonstrates the refined taste of the estate's inhabitants.
Did you notice the materials used? Columns, wall cladding: marble features prominently in the spa wing, testifying to the luxury and privileged status of the lords of Montmaurin.
Pascal Lemaître / Centre des monuments nationaux