Summary of Best Attractions in Salon-de-Provence
To many, Marseille soap represents a charming artisanal product. However, a century ago, it was a significant international industry, with Salon-de-Provence at its heart. Although the trade experienced a decline with the advent of washing machines and detergents, two historic factories in the city still uphold traditional methods of production and welcome inquisitive guests.
While soap tells part of the city’s story, Salon-de-Provence is also home to a grand medieval castle and notable sites associated with the enigmatic Nostradamus, who lived and died here. The quaint squares adorned with plane trees and café tables, along with the rugged landscapes dotted with wild herbs, vines, and olive trees, depict a quintessential image of Provence.
Let us explore the most remarkable attractions in Salon-de-Provence:
1. Savonnerie Marius Fabre
Marius Fabre soap is distributed globally and has been produced in Salon-de-Provence for four generations, dating back to 1900. This factory serves as a unique remnant of an industry that once dominated the world.
Complimentary guided tours are available in both French and English, which shed light on the traditional craftsmanship that continues to be employed in the production of this olive oil soap, from the initial stages through to the final product.
A museum also exists, showcasing antique boxwood soap stamps, molds, crates, and remarkable packaging from the past.
2. Château de l’Empéri
Overlooking the Crau Plain from its elevated position on the Rocher de Puech is the medieval castle of Salon-de-Provence.
The towers symbolize the city and crown a noble estate that was historically occupied by the Archbishops of Arles and Holy Roman Emperors.
Inside the castle, there is a museum dedicated to the French military up to the First World War, showcasing how uniforms and small arms have evolved over centuries.
Among the notable exhibits are the gloves worn by Napoleon during the Egyptian campaign and a leather pouch that belonged to Louis XV.
3. Fontaine Moussue
Salon-de-Provence would not be the same without its distinctive, mushroom-shaped Mossy Fountain located in Place Croustillat.
This fountain has stood since the 1500s, situated where the town’s residents have sought refuge from heat and sun for even longer.
It was only in the 20th century that limestone deposits fused the fountain’s two basins, resulting in its present shape, characterized by abundant moss and wild vegetation.
4. Tour de l’Horloge
Another feature to appreciate while enjoying a coffee or aperitif in Place Croustillat is an elegant Baroque clock tower that serves as the northern entrance to the old city.
This structure was erected in the 1630s, replacing a former fortified gate.
There are numerous intricate details to observe, including gargoyles, quoins, a clock, moon phase chart, and the graceful iron campanile.
Above the pediment that tops the entrance, you will find a crest inscribed with “La Loi” (The Law): an intriguing remnant from the Revolution, replacing what was formerly the King’s crest.
5. Porte du Bourg Neuf
The imposing eastern entrance to the heart of Salon-de-Provence epitomizes how the city’s ramparts would have appeared prior to the 1600s.
This robust crenellated gate features an arrow loop at the front and machicolations beneath its battlements.
Above the archway, a coat of arms can be seen, while as you pass through, you will come across a medieval statue of the Virgin with Child.
This depiction is known as a Black Madonna, and typically, it has darkened over centuries due to the accumulation of residues.
6. Savonnerie Rampal Latour
During summer mornings, this historic soap factory graciously offers insights into its century-old craft.
Rampal has operated at this site since 1907, adhering to traditional methodologies to produce soap that is gentle on both skin and the environment.
Although the factory itself dates to the early 20th century, the family tradition of soap-making extends back at least a century earlier.
If you find yourself captivated by what you see, or are already familiar with Rampal Latour, artisan soap can be purchased in bulk at the factory store.
7. Maison de Nostradamus
This 16th-century prophet, born Michel de Nostredame, continues to intrigue individuals nearly five centuries after his passing.
In Salon-de-Provence, visitors can explore the residence where he lived from 1547 to 1566. His most famous work, “Prophecies,” was composed during his time at this location on what is now Rue Nostradamus.
While there are no artifacts from Nostradamus’ era, a 40-minute audio guide tour portrays him as a Renaissance humanist dedicated to knowledge and science during the perilous period of the Inquisition.
8. Église Saint-Laurent
This Gothic church was constructed beyond the northern walls of the city in the 14th and 15th centuries.
While primarily Gothic in style, it also showcases characteristics of the Romanesque, as evidenced by its lack of external ornamentation and narrow window apertures.
This design may have served to fend off the mistral winds and the intense summer sun, ensuring a cooler interior.
The interior features splendid decorations, with notable items including a 16th-century polychrome sculpture of Mary cradling Jesus and the tomb of Nostradamus situated within the Chapel of the Virgin.
9. Town Hall
Although primarily a sight to observe as you pass by, the Hôtel de Ville still warrants a pause and a photograph.
Similar to the nearby Tour de l’Horloge, it dates back to the 17th century and exhibits a wealth of Baroque stylistic elements.
The wooden lintel at ground level, intricately carved with the coat of arms of Salon-de-Provence, is particularly eye-catching.
The building’s front features turrets at the corners, and it is crowned with a stately balustrade.
In the square below stands a statue of Adam de Craponne, a 16th-century engineer credited with enhancing local agriculture by constructing canals to convey water from the Durance river.
10. Zoo de la Barben
Just a ten-minute journey down the Route de Saint-Cannat leads you to the entrance of this highly-regarded zoo.
Visitors can expect to encounter hundreds of animals across 120 different species while enjoying the picturesque countryside situated on the plateau to the east of the city.
The park spans over 30 hectares of holm oak forest, and those concerned about animal welfare will be pleased to know that its profits support international animal protection initiatives.
Children will delight in viewing elephants, giraffes, tigers, hippos, various bears, wolves, and jaguars.
11. Gorges de Régalon
The southern slopes of the Luberon Massif are mere moments from Salon-de-Provence, where the nearby town of Mérindol presents breathtaking rocky landscapes to explore.
The Gorges de Régalon features sheer limestone cliffs that rise over 140 meters.
In certain areas, the ravine narrows to less than a meter across, resulting in minimal light reaching its base.
There are two parking areas available, and hiking trails lead through olive groves and pine forests, inviting you to discover this hidden natural treasure.
Note that the gorge is closed during periods of rainfall due to the risk of landslides.
12. Weekly Market
If you find yourself in Salon-de-Provence on a Wednesday morning, direct your steps towards Place de Jules Morgan.
This location hosts a bustling weekly market, brimming with stalls featuring a variety of Provencal specialties.
Here, the focus is particularly on olives, olive oil, artisan soap, and wine, along with the delightful navettes.
These boat-shaped biscuits, which come in flavors ranging from orange blossom water to vanilla, chocolate, or anise, are especially popular.
Similar to the olive oil and soap, they make excellent gifts to take back home.
13. Wine
Another notable aspect of Salon-de-Provence is its designation as a wine region, encompassing Bouches-du-Rhône and Appellation Méditerranée IGPs (protected geographical indicators), along with the Appellation Méditerranée AOC (controlled appellation of origin). Situated just ten kilometers from the city is Château Calissanne, which spans 250 hectares of vineyards cultivating varieties such as Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Rolle, Ugni, Mourvèdre, Grenache, Cinsault, and various others for producing exquisite red, white, and rosé wines.
The estate is located at the base of a stunning escarpment, and alongside its selection of wines, the cave offers preserves, olive oil, and terrines.
14. Olive Oil
A pivotal chapter in Salon-de-Provence’s transformation into the soap capital occurred due to a devastating frost that destroyed olive trees throughout Provence, while those located on the mild slopes surrounding this city survived unscathed.
A number of these groves now yield Provence’s AOP olives and olive oil.
If you are inclined to learn more, several estates offer visits where you can engage with the owners for a comprehensive introduction to this ancient tradition.
One such place is Mas des Bories, featuring groves scattered with historic dry stone huts and flourishing wild herbs such as bay, lavender, and thyme.
15. Musique à l’Empéri
For ten days at the end of July, a chamber music festival occurs, featuring soloists from renowned orchestras such as the Opéra de Paris, Berlin Philharmonic, and the London Symphony Orchestra.
The performances take place in the Renaissance courtyard of the Château de l’Empéri, infusing them with a sense of solemnity.
These concerts occur nightly at 21:00, while the Romanesque Church of Saint-Michel hosts earlier performances at 18:00. The programme is refreshed with contemporary classical music.
If the opportunity arises, attendees should try to experience a performance featuring live musicians accompanying a silent film.
