This medieval town in southern France has strong ties to Nostradamus, a weekly olive market, and the headquarters of France's military aerobatic team.
In Salon-de-Provence, you can explore the medieval streets leading to the 10th-century Château de l'Empéri, watch the Patrouille de France practice their aerial maneuvers, and visit the house where Nostradamus wrote his prophecies. The town, located between Marseille and Avignon, maintains its traditional character with weekly markets and two working soap factories that still use centuries-old production methods.
Exploring the Medieval Center
Two 17th-century gates mark the entrances to the old town: Porte de l'Horloge and Porte du Bourg Neuf. Look for the classical columns at the base of Porte de l'Horloge and its two sundials showing moon phases and planetary positions. As you walk the narrow streets, you'll come across the Fontaine Moussue, an 18th-century fountain covered in green mineral deposits that have formed a mushroom-like shape over time.
The Château de l'Empéri
The 10th-century castle rivals the Papal Palace in Avignon in size. You can visit its military museum, which displays uniforms and weapons from the reign of Louis XIV through World War I. The castle opens daily from 10 AM to 6 PM (closed Mondays). During July and August, you can attend classical music concerts in the stone courtyard, where the walls create natural acoustics.
Nostradamus Legacy
Visit the Nostradamus House museum to see where the famous astrologer spent his final 19 years until 1566. A 45-minute audio guide explains his medical practice and prophecies. His tomb lies in the 15th-century Collegiale Saint-Laurent, which combines Gothic architecture with regional Provençal elements.
Markets and Local Traditions
Every Wednesday morning, more than 100 vendors set up stalls in Place Morgan, selling local produce, cheese, and crafts. During summer, browse the evening market on Fridays from 6 PM to 11 PM for local food and artisanal products. You can tour the Marius Fabre soap factory to see traditional soap-making in action and visit its museum displaying historical tools and packaging.
Air Force Presence
Watch the Patrouille de France practice their formation flying every Tuesday between noon and 2 PM. The best viewing spots include the castle terrace (access with castle admission ticket), Place Morgan, and the public park on Avenue des Alliés.
Cultural Events
The town hosts several annual events: the Rencontres Cinématographiques film festival in March screens independent French films, while the Côté Cour Festival brings classical theater to the castle courtyard in summer evenings. In June, a three-day Renaissance festival fills the streets with residents in period costumes demonstrating crafts and daily life from the 16th century.
