LE GRAND PRESBYTERE

The town of Martres-Tolosane, a land of art and history, has restored the former presbytery and transformed it into an exhibition hall dedicated to Métiers d'Art and Contemporary Art. This place, steeped in spirituality, hosts a variety of exhibitions that change with the seasons.

Since the beginning of the parish registers (in 1670), we know all the priests of Martres-Tolosane who have lived in the presbytery. In a state of disrepair, especially after the Revolution, the commune had to sell the dovecote and stable, located at the end of the magnificent garden, in order to carry out the most urgent repairs. After the Second World War, successive mayors provided some comfort for the priests.

In 2014, the town council decided to make the most of this unoccupied building and give it a new lease of life, while preserving its original character. The discovery of half-timbering on an entire façade (under the plaster) has made the Grand Presbytère the jewel of the village. The architects have succeeded in highlighting all these testimonies to the past. The interior has been transformed into an exhibition space, with a glass front overlooking the village square, the church and the Heritage Interpretation Centre.

The beautiful old garden has been brought back to life with harmonious planting. The faithfully restored inner courtyard invites visitors to take a step back into the village's past. Well integrated into this medieval landscape, the little rue Louise THÈBE is in harmony with the whole of this fine achievement.

The Grand Presbytère opened its doors on 23 May 2015. Its large exhibition rooms are designed to host events throughout the year and promote arts and crafts and contemporary art.