Town of about 8,500 inhabitants located in the Bouches-du-Rhône, in Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, Saint-Chamas takes place about fifty kilometers from Marseille and its famous creeks. It is located on the banks of the Etang de Berre, near Salon-de-Provence, Istres Cornillon-Confoux.
Occupied since the Palaeolithic, the territory Saint-Chamas began to grow in the Gallo-Roman, particularly during the construction of the bridge that allowed Flavien linking Arles to Marseille. The town has gradually forged a friendly and authentic face it has today, including the construction of the modern city in the course of the seventeenth century and the installation of the Royal Blowing which was one major companies in the region until the mid-1970s.
Today Saint-Chamas continues to attract visitors passing both by its rich historical and architectural heritage with its natural setting.
Listed historical monument, the church of Saint-Léger was built in the second half of the seventeenth century by Pierre Pavilion, an architect of Aix-en-Provence. Provencal Baroque, it reveals a particular bell tower piles of the first half of the eighteenth.
Built in the first century, the old bridge Flavian still stands proudly on the Touloubre. Ranked historic monument, it has beautiful stone carvings on its entablature and two large original arches. Nearby, you can also discover the viaduct, listed historic monument, which hosts the railway line between Avignon and Marseille.
Originally dedicated to the patron saint of fishermen, St. Peter's chapel had many uses over the years (warehouse, dojo) before being completely restored to house temporary painting exhibitions throughout the year.
In the heart of old town, the Municipal Museum Paul Lafran, labeled Museum of France, takes place in the old town hall of the seventeenth century. It helps to learn more about local history through textile collections, Arles clothes, everyday objects or musical instruments. It is also possible to discover the votive chapel of Our Lady of Mercy and a bathroom archeology presenting the results of excavations of the team of Paul Lafran. Thematic exhibitions are also regularly offered.
National Blowing is also open to the public and to discover the secrets of an industry that has long been living in the region.
The weekly market is held every Saturday morning.
Concerts are held in June on the occasion of Music Day.
In late June, the Port festival offers several types of entertainment suitable for all ages.
Between July and August, Etang'Bouilles is the opportunity to attend many concerts in various styles and.
In late August, up to the feast of Saint-Léger with its rides, concerts and various events.
Provencal Christmas market is proposed in December.
