Gallo-Roman Villa Tour in Loupian

Earlier this week, we toured the ruins of a Gallo-Roman Villa in Loupian (yes, in France. In fact, very near us!). It's main attraction are the unique mosaics that are influenced by both Aquitaine and Syria.

The highest quality mosaics use the smallest tiles. The Villa floors used tiles that varied from 2 cm to 1/2 cm.
These "season" figures were done with tiles of 1/2 cm (1/5 inch)

This particular design is bordered by a trompe l'oeil - the pyramids/cubes and waves seem to move as you walk around the design.

The mosaics are still being restored - the original tiles are highly colored; the replacements are shades of grey.

This bedroom is the most completely restored section

This semicircular lounging/eating area is the most complete original section

I took a *lot* of photos here! You can see them on my shared album here.

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Details:

Bus from Sète - Hérault Transport (orange buses) #320, leaving the Théâtre Molière bus stop at 11:15 (ours was a bit late), to Loupian Centre stop before noon, 1.60€
Short walk to the restaurant Chez Patou (aka Bar Restaurant le QG, on Place de la République); fantastic plat du jour 14€
Longer walk (~20 minutes) to the Villa
Guided tour (in French), 3:00 - 4:30, 5€
Walk back to the same Loupian centre bus stop
Bus #320 5:40, back in Sète at 6:15, 1€