Saint-Quentin-La-Poterie: Ceramics and Crafts

Saint-Quentin-La-Poterie combines ceramics and crafts with local history and hiking trails. Nearly 40 workshops run by potters, ceramic artists and other craftspeople are open to the public year-round. The number of workshops may change. Since 1992, the town has held the “Ville et Métiers d’Art” designation, an award that highlights its focus on craftsmanship.

Ceramic Workshops and Museum

At the entrance to the historic town center is La Maison, Capitale de la Céramique, a public welcome and information center. It displays a work by every craft workshop in the town. The center’s arrangements may change; check the latest information before your visit.

The Musée de la Poterie Méditerranéenne is housed in a former 16th-century oil mill. It covers about 400 m² over two floors, with eleven rooms, and contains more than 1,200 pieces of functional ceramics. On display are 700 glazed, unglazed and functional ceramics from around the Mediterranean. The collection also includes traditional glazed ceramics from Saint-Quentin-la-Poterie, as well as pipes and Terraillettes from the Job Clerc manufactory. Different materials and uses are thus presented alongside works connected to the town and its ceramic tradition.

Exhibitions and Local History

The Terralha ceramics trail brings around 20 European artists to the town center. Their works are temporarily displayed in private spaces that are set up as exhibition venues for the occasion. Artists and venues may change. The Salle d’exposition Joseph Monier hosts exhibitions including the Concours de la Jeune Céramique, FRAC and the Journées Métiers d’art.

The Tour de l’Horloge also connects history with views of the surrounding area: its base dates from the 11th century. Visitors can climb a staircase to the third and top floor to take in the panorama across the Uzège region and the Duchy of Uzès. Saint-Quentin-la-Poterie is also featured as an attraction on the World Heritage Journeys of the European Union’s “Ancient Europe” route, alongside the Pont du Gard.

Hiking Trails and a Holiday Activity

The La Madone circular trail is 7 km long, with a stated walking time of 2 hours. The Massargues circular trail offers a viewpoint over Roman millstone quarries. The two trails offer different highlights: La Madone provides guidance on distance and walking time, while the Massargues viewpoint offers a connection to the region’s Roman history.

Another natural feature is the Aven de Valorgues, a natural resurgence spring. During heavy rainfall, water rises from underground there.

During the school holidays, Atelier Terre offers introductions to ceramics and various clay-modelling techniques. The activity is suitable for beginners, families and children aged four and over. Dates and availability may change; check in advance if you are planning to attend a workshop.

Discover more destinations: Saint-Félix-De-Pallières, Le Cailar, Alzon, Pougnadoresse, Sumène, Marsillargues, Rivières, Arpaillargues-Et-Aureillac

For the broader travel overview: Gard.