Saint-Bertrand-de-Comminges, an architectural gem in the Haut-Garonne Pyrenees, is opening its doors to the public during the European Heritage Days on 20 and 21 September. This medieval town perched on a rocky outcrop, listed as one of the Most Beautiful Villages in France, is unveiling its cultural programme at the Musée Archéologique Départemental. A veritable repository of ancient and medieval history, this major heritage site offers a unique immersion in two millennia of history, from the ancient Lugdunum Convenarum to the Gothic cathedral that majestically dominates the plain. This free event is part of a drive to promote the heritage of the Pyrenees, and offers visitors a unique opportunity to discover the archaeological treasures of this ancient capital of Comminges.
Three remarkable events will punctuate this heritage weekend, creating a fascinating dialogue between past and present. History buffs will be treated to a demonstration of Roman calligraphy by type designer Corentin Noyer, who will bring to life the art of beautiful ancient writing. The “Materia Viva” lecture on Saturday afternoon (4pm) will reveal the secrets of archaeological conservation-restoration, revealing the painstaking work that goes into enabling the remains of the past to reveal their secrets. Families won’t be left out either, with a saxophone discovery concert on Sunday (11am and 3pm), combining contemporary music and heritage in an exceptional setting. This eclectic programme is a perfect illustration of the cultural vitality of Saint-Bertrand-de-Comminges and its ability to combine tradition and modernity.
The history of Saint-Bertrand-de-Comminges has its roots in Roman antiquity, when the town was known as Lugdunum Convenarum and was one of the most important cities in Aquitaine Gaul. Its monumental thermal baths, theatre and ramparts still bear witness to this past grandeur, while Sainte-Marie Cathedral, a masterpiece of Pyrenean Gothic art, perpetuates the spiritual and architectural heritage of the Middle Ages. The archaeological museum’s collections, rich in ancient sculptures, Romanesque capitals and everyday objects, tell the story of the development of this exceptional region at the crossroads of Mediterranean and Atlantic influences. These Heritage Days are a unique invitation to step back in time and understand why Saint-Bertrand-de-Comminges remains one of the most emblematic sites in the Pyrenees.
