Salernes is a commune in the Var department in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region of southeastern France. It is situated approximately 13 km (8 mi) southeast of Draguignan and 30 km (19 mi) north of the Mediterranean coast.
Geography
- Location: Salernes lies in the foothills of the Prealps, at an altitude ranging from 166 m to 388 m above sea level.
- Area: The commune covers 27.17 km² (10.49 sq mi).
- Hydrology: The River Siagne runs near the western boundary of the commune.
Demographics
- Population: According to the most recent census data (2020), Salernes had 6,781 inhabitants.
- Density: Approximately 250 inhabitants per km².
History
- Ancient period: Archaeological evidence indicates human presence since the Iron Age, with Gallo‑Roman artifacts uncovered in the surrounding area.
- Middle Ages: The settlement developed around a fortified castle documented in the 12th century. Salernes was part of the County of Provence and later came under the jurisdiction of the Kingdom of France in the 16th century.
- Modern era: The town expanded during the 19th century, particularly with the rise of the textile industry, for which it became known regionally.
Economy
- Textiles: Historically, Salernes was renowned for its silk and wool manufacturing, a tradition that continues with small‑scale production and textile workshops.
- Agriculture: The surrounding countryside supports olive groves, vineyards, and orchards, contributing to local agrarian output.
- Tourism: The commune attracts visitors for its historic architecture, local festivals, and proximity to the Var coastal resorts.
Cultural and Architectural Heritage
- Saint-George Church (Église Saint-Georges): A Romanesque‑Gothic parish church dating to the 13th century, featuring a 16th‑century bell tower and notable interior frescoes.
- Town Hall (Mairie): Constructed in the early 20th century, the building exemplifies regional civic architecture.
- Historic market square: Hosts weekly markets that have operated since the medieval period.
Transportation
- Roads: Salernes is served by departmental roads D 31 and D 155, providing connections to Draguignan, Fréjus, and Toulon.
- Rail: The nearest railway station is in Draguignan, offering regional TER services.
- Air: The closest major airport is Nice Côte d'Azur Airport, approximately 100 km to the east.
Education
- The commune maintains several primary schools, a middle school (collège), and a vocational training center focused on textile arts.
Notable Residents
- Joseph-Marie Gagnaire (1903–1995): Textile artist and founder of the Salernes silk workshops.
- Jean-Claude Barrera (born 1945): Politician who served as mayor of Salernes (1995–2020) and held positions within the Var departmental council.
International Relations
- Salernes is twinned with the town of Torre del Greco in Italy, fostering cultural exchange programs.
References
- Institut National de la Statistique et des Études Économiques (INSEE), commune file for Salernes.
- "Histoire du Var," Presses Universitaires de Provence, 2018.
- Official website of the commune of Salernes (www.salernes.fr).
