The Basilica of Saint-Maximin and the relics of Saint Mary Magdalene
In the heart of the Var, between Aix-en-Provence and Brignoles, the Basilica of Saint-Maximin-la-Sainte-Baume draws pilgrims from all over the world every year. The reason: according to Provençal tradition, it holds the tomb and relics of Saint Mary Magdalene, the first witness of the Resurrection. Our shop is right opposite, on the square: here is what you need to know before your visit.
A basilica born from the discovery of the relics
According to tradition, Mary Magdalene, who came to Provence with other disciples of Christ, ended her life in prayer in the cave of the Sainte-Baume. At her death, she is said to have been buried by Saint Maximin, the first bishop of Aix, where the town that bears his name stands today.
In the 13th century, Charles II of Anjou, Count of Provence, had the tomb searched for. After the relics were discovered, construction of the basilica began in 1279. Work stopped in the 16th century and the building was never finished: that is why its façade has neither a great portal nor a bell tower. Yet at 73 metres long and 29 metres high, it is the largest Gothic building in Provence.
The crypt and the relics of Saint Mary Magdalene
The most moving place in the basilica is its crypt, a former Roman burial site. It holds several ancient sarcophagi, including those attributed to Saint Maximin and Saint Sidonius, and above all the golden reliquary containing the skull venerated as that of Saint Mary Magdalene. Many pilgrims come here to pray and entrust her with an intention.
What not to miss
The 18th-century organ commissioned by the Dominican brother Jean-Esprit Isnard: its 2,960 pipes are original, and it is renowned among organists worldwide.
The 94 carved walnut choir stalls, topped with medallions of saints of the Dominican order, which watched over the sanctuary for centuries.
The neighbouring Royal Convent, the former Dominican convent, with its cloister.
The feast of Saint Mary Magdalene, around 22 July: torchlight procession, solemn Mass and procession of the relics through the streets of the town.
Continuing the pilgrimage: the Sainte-Baume cave
About twenty kilometres away, in the Sainte-Baume massif, lies the cave where, according to tradition, Mary Magdalene lived the last thirty years of her life. It is reached on foot through an ancient forest. Many pilgrims make both visits on the same day: the cave where she prayed, and the basilica where she rests.
A keepsake of Saint Mary Magdalene
Opposite the basilica, the Mariam shop offers items dedicated to the saint: the Mary Magdalene rosewood rosary with its prayer booklet in four languages, spikenard oil, reminiscent of the perfume she poured on Christ's feet, medals, statues, icons, candles and the novena booklet. Find them all on our Mary Magdalene page. All our items are blessed by a priest of the basilica.
Can't come to Saint-Maximin? We ship throughout France and abroad, with free delivery in France on orders from €59.
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