Former fortified castle of the 9th century built on the rock of Puech, at Salon-de-Provence, the castle of Empéri is now the subject of a classification as a Historic Monument. Owned by the City, it attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors every year.
The Château de l'Empéri now houses the Musée des Armées and the Musée de Salon et de la Crau. It is completed by the Jardin des Simples of Nostradamus, a great local figure. The public can discover there representations of the various army corps from the Ancien Régime to the Great War, as well as a copy of Napoleon's bed in Saint Helena. History and military art are developed there thanks to impressive collections.
The Salon et de la Crau museum unveils the life of the city from Antiquity to the 20th century, developing various themes such as archaeology, agriculture, religious art and soap making.
Festivals and summer events are also regularly organized within the grounds of the Château de l'Empéri, such as the international festival of chamber music in Provence, Renaissance festivals and various concerts.
