Saint Maximin la Sainte Baume

Discover Saint-Maximin-la-Sainte-Baume, a pretty town in Provence Verte.

Saint-Maximin-la-Sainte-Baume is one of the major crossroads in the Var department. Here, at the foot of the Sainte-Baume massif, Provençal life, medieval heritage, and a religious legacy unique in Europe come together.

This capital of Green Provence is best known as the home of the Basilica of Sainte-Marie-Madeleine, the third most important Christian tomb after St. Peter's in Rome and Santiago de Compostela. But beyond this spiritual treasure, the town charms visitors with its shopping streets, colorful markets, and proximity to the wild landscapes of the massif.

Between fertile plains and sacred mountains

Saint-Maximin benefits from fertile plains irrigated by the Argens River, where wheat fields, orchards, vineyards, and olive groves alternate. On the horizon, the white peaks of the Sainte-Baume massif stand out against the sky.

The light here is typically Provençal: bright in summer, soft in spring, often golden in autumn. In the background, Sainte-Baume watches over the town, covered with an ancient forest said to have been frequented by Mary Magdalene in the 1st century.

Stroll through the historic center

Start your visit at Place Malherbe, the beating heart of the town. Every Wednesday morning from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., the Provençal market sets up shop here, with stalls selling fragrant olives, goat cheese, lavender honey, and artisanal charcuterie. The smell of warm bread mingles with the scent of thyme and rosemary.

From the square, cobbled streets lead you to the Basilica of Sainte-Marie-Madeleine. Built between 1295 and 1532, it impresses with its unfinished Gothic façade and grandiose interior. In the crypt, you can see the sarcophagus attributed to Mary Magdalene, surrounded by precious relics. Walking along Rue du Général de Gaulle, you will come across 18th-century façades, shaded arcades, and small squares where time seems to stand still.

Iconic places

Basilica of Saint Mary Magdalene

Third tomb of Christianity, southern Gothic masterpiece, crypt, and relics.

Royal Convent

Former Dominican convent, now a hotel and restaurant, with cloister and restored frescoes.

Heritage House

Museum space dedicated to the history of the town and local archaeology.

Sainte-Baume Massif

Sacred forest, Mary Magdalene's cave 22 km away, pilgrimage and hiking site.

Wednesday Market

An unmissable event to sample the flavors of Green Provence.

Local life and events

• Provençal market: every Wednesday morning, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., Place Malherbe and adjacent streets.

• Feast of Saint Mary Magdalene: end of July, processions, concerts, and entertainment.

• Fête du Terroir: in September, tastings and craft demonstrations.

• Organ concerts: held regularly in the basilica.