out of the ordinary Discover the little (and big) secrets of Narbonne
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The homecoming of an Archbishop and President
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Changing wine to water for Africa
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A stranded anchor
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• Are there any other anchors in Narbonne?
Another monumental anchor, displayed in the Archaeological Museum of Narbonne, was fished out of the waters at Port-La-Nautique, on the northern shore of the Bages-Sigean lagoon, providing evidence of maritime traffic in Antiquity.
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A stranded anchor |
| If you stand facing the Town Hall of Narbonne, look to your right and you will espy an anchor; still hanging from the arch of the passageway of the same name. This was once the main gate to the Archbishop’s Palace. There’s no point in looking for any quays though. |
The anchor is not a symbol of ancient Narbonne’s rich history as a port, but a reminder of the feudal rights enjoyed by the archbishops.
The prelate was entitled to a tithe on all fish caught. Consequently, it is in this vicinity, a stone’s throw from the place aux Herbes or Calauria (from “ caulet ”, cabbage in the Occitan language), that the fish market was held. This tradition continued up until the end of the 19th century, when the new covered market was built on Cours Mirabeau.
The “ anchor ” passageway also served for defence purposes. In case of alert, the men-at-arms used it to climb the neighbouring ramparts.
