The Royal Gunpowder Works Amphitheatre

Place: Saint-Chamas (Bouches-du-Rhône)

Public: Teenagers

The Royal Gunpowder Works, at Saint Chamas, was established in the 17^th century and produced the gunpowder needed by Louis XIV’s armies. The facility closed in 1974, and the gunpowder works and surrounding area (118 hectares) are now open to the public. It also has several kilometres of botanic trailsfor nature lovers to discover awealth of unspoilt flora. For the last 10 years, the Union APARE-CME has been working closely on the gunpowder works, with the SIANPOU, which manages the site. This leafy haven at the South East entrance to the Parc de la Poudrerie belongs to the town of Saint-Chamas and based on the impressive results of previous workcamps, the town has logically asked the Union APARE-CME to help in restoration efforts to enhance this green and verdant ‘amphitheatre’.

You will be helping to rebuild a stone-cut retaining wall, as an extension to the existing wall.

 Time off includes a wide range of activities, such as excursions to the Camargue, the Luberon, the Alpilles, visits to the cities of Marseille, Aix-en-Provence, or Arles. You’ll also be able to observe the fauna and flora in the park.

Special bonus : You’ll be staying just a short walk from a fine sandy beach.

 Nature of work:traditional masonry

Accommodation: in separate male/female dormitories, at Saint Chamas sailing centre.