GALLO-ROMAN SPACE

The vicus (town) of Pommerœul was once at the crossroads of a road (Bavay-Blicquy) and a river (the Haine), which gave it a preponderant commercial and artisanal role in the region. Large, exceptionally well-preserved boats from the Roman era and a wealth of archaeological material from excavations on the site are presented in a new, dynamic museography. It provides a better understanding of navigation, technical know-how and the various aspects of ancient life. Three Celtic boats are particularly noteworthy. The barge and pirogue discovered at Pommerœul are the museum's most important exhibits. The barge, 12.70 m long and dating from the ^2nd and ^3rd centuries, has been preserved. The ^1st-century oak "monoxyle" pirogue measures 9.70 m (originally 12 m). The museum invites visitors to discover everyday objects. A multimedia show traces the two-thousand-year history of inland waterway transport. Other trades from the Gallo-Roman era are also on display, including fishermen, potters, metalworkers and shoemakers. For numismatic enthusiasts, a fine collection of Gallo-Roman coins is on display. The space is an interactive museum, making full use of audiovisual techniques and computer-generated images to recreate this part of ancient history. Activities, temporary exhibitions and events are organized for young visitors and families.