Visit the Sanctuary of Saintes Maries de la Mer
Take advantage of your stay to visit the sanctuary of Les Saintes Maries de la Mer. Here you’ll discover the story of Sainte Marie-Jacobé and Sainte Marie Salomé, close relatives of Christ, who are said to have landed on the beaches of Camargue with other disciples. Accompanied by Saint Sara, they fled Palestine and came to evangelize our region. TheProvençal Romanesque church dates back to the 12th century. Fortified from the 14th century onwards, it dominates the village and can be seen from 10 km away. It is a veritable fortress, with a single, straight nave, unadorned and 15 metres high. It is possible to access its roof terrace to enjoy a 360° view.
Attend a pilgrimage to Saintes Maries de la Mer
Every year, Les Saintes Maries de la Mer hosts three pilgrimages. These pilgrimages are an opportunity for pilgrims and travelers to celebrate their faith and pay homage to the village’s patron saints. Their relics, discovered in 1448, are preserved in shrines in the Upper Chapel of the village church. They are lowered into the church choir during pilgrimages. Sara and the Barque des Saintes Maries are carried in procession to the sea, surrounded by guardians and pilgrims.
- May pilgrimages: May 24 (feast of Sara, patron saint of Gypsies and Travellers) and May 25 (feast of Saint Mary Jacobé)
- October pilgrimage feast of Mary Salome: Saturday and Sunday, closest to October 22
- Translation of the Relics: 1st Sunday in December