Visiting Saint-Maximin-la-Sainte-Baume: a pilgrim's guide to Mary Magdalene's town
Welcome, pilgrims! Whether you have come to Provence to pray before the relics of Saint Mary Magdalene or to climb up to the holy cave of the Sainte-Baume, this short guide will help you prepare your visit to Saint-Maximin-la-Sainte-Baume — and find a meaningful souvenir to take home.
The Basilica of Saint Mary Magdalene
Built from 1295 onwards, the Basilica of Saint-Maximin is the largest Gothic church in Provence. According to tradition, Mary Magdalene spent the end of her life in the region, and her relics are venerated here. Go down into the crypt to see the ancient sarcophagi and the golden reliquary holding the skull attributed to the saint.
Every year around 22 July, the feast of Saint Mary Magdalene brings pilgrims from all over the world, with a procession of the relics through the streets of the town. Read our full article on the basilica (in French).
The Holy Cave of the Sainte-Baume
About twenty kilometres south of Saint-Maximin, the cave of the Sainte-Baume is where, according to tradition, Mary Magdalene lived in prayer for thirty years. The walk up through the ancient forest takes about 45 minutes to an hour from the Hôtellerie. Wear good shoes and bring water. Our pilgrim's guide to the Sainte-Baume (in French).
Visit our shop, right opposite the basilica
Mariam is a small family-run shop of religious articles in Saint-Maximin, just across from the basilica. You will find:
Holy oils from Jerusalem — spikenard (the oil of Mary Magdalene), myrrh, rose and more
Rosaries, including handmade rosaries in natural stones
Mary Magdalene items — statues, icons, medals, candles
Saint medals, novena candles, icons and incense
Opening hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 9:30 am – 12:30 pm and 2 pm – 5 pm; Sunday, 10 am – 1 pm. Closed on Mondays.
Address: 18 rue de l'Hôtel de Ville, 83470 Saint-Maximin-la-Sainte-Baume, France.
English spoken: we will be happy to welcome you and help you choose in English.
Already back home? We ship worldwide
Forgot to buy a gift, or want to renew your oil of spikenard? Our online shop ships internationally (usually 14 to 21 working days). Secure payment by card or PayPal. Visit the online shop.
May your pilgrimage be blessed. We look forward to welcoming you in Saint-Maximin!
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