Three pilgrimages

Around 45BC, Saint Marie JAcobé and Saint Maie Salome (also known as Mary of Clopas) and their servant Sarah, were persecuted for being Cjristian and thus sent to death on a boats without rows and sails. According to the tradiiton, thier boat miraculously reached the legendary shores of Les Saintes Maries de la Mer.

Since the 12th century, Les Saintes Maries de la Mer has been a place of pilgrimage. The relics of the Saints (Marie Jacobé and Marie Salomé) discovered in 1448 during digs ordered by King René are particurlarly revered during two pilgrimages. Sarah, the servant of the Saints, is celebrate on May 24th for the gypsy's pilgrimage.

Pilgrimage in May

On 24th May, the statue of Saint Sara (the patron saint of gypsies) is carried to the sea in a procession. The 25th is devoted to the saints of the village, Marie Jacobé and Marie Salomé, which are taken in a cortege to the sea where they are blessed by the bishop. During two days, there are many services and prayers in the church.

pilgrimage in october

The second pilgrimage takes place on the closest Sunday to 22nd October. On Saturday there is a ceremony to take down the shrines, a mass and a prayer vigil. On sunday there is a solemn mass, a procession to the sea and blessing and a ceremony to bring up the shrines.

pilgrimage in december

This pilgrimage, more intimate,  takes place on the first sunday of december. Its dedicated to the revelation of the relics of Saint Marie-Jacbé and Sainte Marie-Salome.