Salon-de-Provence Facts for Kids

Salon-de-Provence is a town in southern France. It's about 44 kilometers (27 miles) from the big city of Marseille. This town is special because it's home to a major French Air Force base.

History of Salon-de-Provence
- Nostradamus's Home
- Old Town and Waterways
What to See in Salon-de-Provence
Culture and Events
Education
See also

History of Salon-de-Provence

Salon was once an ancient Gallo-Roman town called an oppidum. It was perfectly placed on the old salt trade routes. These routes connected the Adriatic Sea, the Atlantic Ocean, and the Mediterranean Sea. This is how the town likely got its name.

People from Phocaea (an ancient Greek city) influenced this area since the 6th century BC. You can still see parts of the old Roman road, the Via Aurelia, near the town. The first time Salon was mentioned by its current name was in the 9th century. Back then, it was called Villa Salone.

Nostradamus's Home

One of the most famous people connected to Salon-de-Provence is Nostradamus. He was a famous French astrologer and doctor. He spent his last years here and is buried in the town. His old house is now a museum that you can visit.

Every June or July, the town celebrates its history with a special event. This event focuses on the time when Nostradamus lived there. It's a big attraction for tourists.

Old Town and Waterways

The historic center of Salon-de-Provence is still surrounded by its old walls. You can enter through two impressive gates built in the 17th century. These are the Porte de l'Horloge (Clock Gate) and the Porte Bourg Neuf.

In 1559, an engineer named Adam de Craponne created the Canal de Craponne. This important canal brought fresh water from the Durance river to the town. It also helped bring goods to Salon, which made the town rich and successful.

What to See in Salon-de-Provence

Nostradamus's house, now a museum

Château de l'Empéri

This castle was the largest in Provence during the 12th and 13th centuries. It was first mentioned over 1,000 years ago! The castle still stands tall over the old town. It was a favorite home for the bishops of Arles. This was because Provence was part of the Holy Roman Empire at the time, which is where the castle gets its name.

After the French Revolution, the castle became property of the city. It was damaged by an earthquake in 1909 but has been fixed up. Today, it holds a museum of military history. Every summer, the castle also hosts a festival of classical music.

Fontaine Moussue

This unique fountain is in Place Crousillat. It has been there since the 16th century. Over time, minerals from the water and plants have grown on it. This makes it look like a giant, mossy mushroom!

St Michel Chapel

This chapel was built in the 13th century. It has a special Romanesque carving above its entrance. This carving, called a tympanum, shows the paschal lamb.

Collégiale Saint Laurent

The current building of this church was built in the 15th century. Cardinal Louis Aleman, who was the bishop of Arles, oversaw its construction.

Salon-de-Provence Air Base

The Salon-de-Provence Air Base is very important. It is home to the French Air Force Academy. This is where future French Air Force officers are trained. It's also where the famous French Aerial Demonstration team, the Patrouille de France, is based. They are known for their amazing air shows!

Local Market

Every Wednesday, the Place Morgan square comes alive. It hosts a traditional Provençal market. Here, you can find local products and experience the lively atmosphere of the region.

Culture and Events

Each summer, the Château de l'Empéri hosts a festival dedicated to chamber music. This brings beautiful music to the historic castle.

Some years, the Château is also the place for Nostradamiques. This is a historical re-enactment of the time of Nostradamus. It includes parades and transforms the old medieval downtown. It's a fun way to step back in time and experience history!

Education

École de l'Air (French Air Force Academy)

Salon-de-Provence facts for kids

Contents