Solliès-Pont

Solliès -Pont is a commune with 11,568 inhabitants (as of January 1, 2011 ) in the Var department in the Provence- Alpes- Côte d' Azur.

Geography

Solliès -Pont is located in the west of Gapeau valley at the foot of Forêt de Font Blanche, an eastern foothills of the Massif de la Sainte -Baume. The cities of Toulon and Hyères in the southwest to the southeast are both 20 km away. The fertile Gapeautal is crossed by a canal and lock system, which is used to irrigate the crops.

History

Solliès -Pont was part of the former municipality Solliès, which was divided in 1799 into the communities Solliès -Ville, Solliès -Pont, Solliès- Toucas Solliès- Farlède.

Attractions

The Castle of Solliès -Pont Château des Saporta from the 16th century building was renovated in the 19th century. The Corps de Logis hotel has two great round towers, the courtyard is flanked by two wings, which are guarded at its ends by two massive round towers with Machicolation. The roofs are covered with slate. Surrounding the palace is a large park with castle pond.

Partnerships

Solliès -Pont maintains since 2000 a partnership with Peveragno in Italy.

Economy

Vineyards, olive groves, vegetable fields and orchards dominate the agricultural area. Famous is Solliès -Pont especially for its figs and cherries. The place bills itself as the capital of fig. The quality wines bear the label AOC Côtes de Provence. For the marketing of wine, fruit and vegetable cooperatives exist.

Sons and daughters of the town

• Franz Josef Pey, 1759-1792, Catholic priest, Seliger