Martres-Tolosane

Martres-Tolosane still has the splendid circular shape of a bastide village. Five craftsmen perpetuate the tradition of hand-made pottery which made the village famous. The Martres style is characterised by hand-painted patterns of flowers and birds, like the renowned multi-coloured ibis, inspired by Moustier pottery. The history of this hand-crafted activity can be seen at the heritage discovery centre called Angonia after the Roman name for the village.
The tradition of craftsmen and women continues in Martres and visitors can admire creations in the workshops of a master-clockmaker, master glassmaker and a painter-sculptor. In addition, the remains of a luxury Roman villa can be seen at Chiragan near Martres. This sumptuous residence, the headquarters of an immense farming estate employing 400 slaves, contained a collection of busts and statues which can be seen at the Musée Saint-Raymond in Toulouse.
Martres-Tolosane is also a nature resort and fishing spot !
Martres-Tolosane has an outdoor activity centre at Saint-Vidian, 2km south of the village. The 1.5 hectare lake teems with fish ! Among the most common are rainbow trout, barbel, gudgeon, chub and roach, not forgetting freshwater crayfish for the most skilful, or luckiest, fishermen. 
Lake Saint-Vidian is in fact two lakes, one of which is reserved for teaching young children the art of fishing.  The quiet, restful spot has a picnic area, children’s play park and a fitness trail. The free car park is easy to access.