Discover Salindres: Industrial History and Architecture

Salindres offers several specific points of interest for a stay: industrial history, historic buildings, walking routes and a weekly market. If you are looking for a hotel and would also like to get to know the town, these themes can help structure your travel plans. Particularly distinctive are the history of aluminium production and architectural remains from different periods.

Industrial history and distinctive architecture

From 1860 to 1890, Salindres was the only aluminium production site in the world. The Salindres chemical factory was founded by Henry Merle, stood on the banks of the Avène and changed its name several times. These milestones link the town’s development to its industrial past and make aluminium production a prominent theme when exploring Salindres.

The Les Maisons moulées housing development is a distinctive architectural landmark. Adrien Badin built it in 1913 from cast reinforced concrete. Its name itself refers to the defining building material and construction method: the concrete was poured and reinforced with steel. The development thus complements the town’s industrial history with a concrete example of early 20th-century architecture.

Church, tower and château

The history of the Church of Saint-André spans several centuries: it was destroyed by a fire in 1703 and rebuilt in 1843. One notable feature of the building is the clock in the bell tower, which strikes on the hour. The church thus brings together a historic turning point and a feature that remains part of daily life today.

The Tour Bécamel, also known as the Donjon de Becmil, is a former signal tower whose origins date back to the beginning of the 12th century. The municipality has renovated the tower. Set amid pine trees, it is an increasingly popular destination for a walk. The former signal tower therefore offers a different historical point of interest from the church or residential architecture.

The Château des Isnards was built in the 16th century as a fortified house. It belongs to the municipality and is surrounded by a public garden. Interior visits are currently not possible; please check this information again before your visit. Its architecture, municipal ownership and garden give you an impression of different aspects of the town, without requiring an interior visit.

Circular trails, walks and a public park

The municipality of Salindres lists several easy and moderate circular walking trails around the town. You can therefore choose between the designated difficulty levels if you would like to include a hike in your plans. The town hall lends out hiking guidebooks. The Tour Bécamel and the circular trails offer different options for walks and hikes.

Parc Municipal des Isnards is a wooded public area with an inclusive playground, swings and slides. It also has tables and benches for picnics. The park thus complements the town’s architectural and industrial history with a public outdoor space equipped for play and picnics.

Weekly market in Salindres

The weekly market is held at Place du Village, where local producers sell their goods. In 2026, the regular market is scheduled for Fridays from 08:00 to 12:00. If you would like to include the market in your travel plans, please check the schedule again before your visit, as the times given apply to 2026.

Discover more destinations: Saint-Hippolyte-De-Caton, Montpezat, Domessargues, Aumessas, Cendras, Quissac, Rochegude, Aulas.

See the regional travel guide: Gard.