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On Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 June, the Belleperche Abbey – Museum of Table Arts is participating in the European Archaeology Days in partnership with the National Institute for Preventive Archaeological Research ( INRAP ).

Throughout the weekend, young and old alike will be able to discover the work of archaeologists through a free program combining exhibition, workshops, demonstrations and conference.

The exhibition "We excavate, it's your story" will offer a glimpse behind the scenes of archaeology and research conducted in the territories.

Several workshops will also provide an introduction to the methods used by archaeologists:

• ceramology,
• mini excavation trays
• carpology

Flint knapping demonstrations will be offered throughout the weekend.

On Sunday at 5 p.m., Jean-Christophe Bats will host a conference entitled:
"Archaeological assessment: finding the site, understanding the territory."
This meeting will provide a better understanding of how archaeologists detect, study and interpret remains before development work begins.

Practical information

Saturday, June 13: 10am – 6pm
Sunday, June 14: 2 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Free

From May 2nd to September 30th, the Belleperche Abbey – Museum of Tableware Arts hosts a unique exhibition dedicated to the earthenware of Ardus and Nègrepelisse , two emblematic production centers of our territory.

In the 18th century, in Lamothe-Capdeville, François Duval, Baron d'Ardus, founded a pottery works that enjoyed lasting success, even obtaining the prestigious title of "royal manufactory" and continuing its activity for nearly 180 years. A few decades later, in Nègrepelisse, Jean Viguié in turn created an ambitious workshop, whose history would be shorter but just as revealing of the economic and artistic stakes of the time.

Although these products were widely distributed far beyond the region, they remain largely unknown to the general public. This exhibition is therefore a first: never before have these two factories been the subject of a dedicated presentation.

Housed in the former guesthouse of the abbey, it brings together nearly 350 objects, the vast majority of which have never been exhibited. Plates, dishes, decorative pieces… the collection reveals the scope, diversity and quality of these local productions, while offering a complete reinterpretation of their history.

Meetings with the curator
As part of the exhibition, three tours are offered to further explore the subject:

• Sunday, May 3rd at 3pm
• Friday, June 5th at 4pm
• Saturday, September 5th at 5pm

An opportunity to exchange ideas about these local earthenware pieces.
No reservation required - Accessible with museum entrance ticket.

The Belleperche Abbey – Museum of Table Arts is pleased to present its agenda for the 2026 season. Throughout the year, discover a varied program combining exhibitions, shows, guided tours and activities for all audiences.

The calendar is now available in several formats:

• In printed form, available free of charge at the abbey reception and at our partners' locations
• available for download on our website
• in digital version

We'll see you very soon!