Emile Chenon Museum describes the findings from the excavations of the “oppidum” Gallo of 18 ha. extension under a dam called Mediolanum Chateaumeillant predecessor. In addition, the museum works in a building from the XIV to XVI.
The museum was created in 1961 by archaeologist Jacques Gourvest and explains much about the gala and civilization Gallo-Roman period in central France. The excavations have allowed to collect a large amount of pottery of exceptional quality, a total of more than 350 amphorae italics, ceramics Nimes and Samos; Prehistoric flint tools, grinders, urns, statues, sarcophagi and more.
There are also displays of old crafts, and a huge press with a huge beam that reminds us that we are in a wine-growing region. On the second floor is a sample of fossils and minerals. The hall remains intact medieval building elements such as mullioned windows and stone benches. The mansion belonged to the family of royal notaries and was known as “Le Petit Chateau”.
References:The Château de Foix dominates the town of Foix. An important tourist site, it is known as a centre of the Cathars. Built on an older 7th-century fortification, the castle is known from 987. In 1002, it was mentioned in the will of Roger I, Count of Carcassonne, who bequeathed the fortress to his youngest child, Bernard. In effect, the family ruling over the region were installed here which allowed them to control access to the upper Ariège valley and to keep surveillance from this strategic point over the lower land, protected behind impregnable walls.
In 1034, the castle became capital of the County of Foix and played a decisive role in medieval military history. During the two following centuries, the castle was home to Counts with shining personalities who became the soul of the Occitan resistance during the crusade against the Albigensians.