The oldest chateau in Provence, the Chateau de la Barben, is set to re-open in June after a 30m euro overhaul by its new owner, Vianney d’Alencon.
He has been inspired by the success of the ‘Puy du Fou’ historical theme park in the Vendée and plans a Provencal equivalent, the Rocher Mistral. The 400-hectare space will include a reproduction hill-top village, traditional livestock, vineyards and olive groves, plus a 1000-seat theatre for themed performances, to celebrate local culture and natural heritage. The 60-room chateau itself is being carefully restored – this includes the frescoes by Aix’s Marius Granet – and outside, visitors can admire the original Le Notre gardens.
The renovation and ongoing operation of the park will provide employment for 200.
Rocher Mistral and the nearby Zoo, between Aix and Salon, should become quite a tourist-magnet. They hope to open in June.
aixcentric 
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