Crypt of Saint Sarah
Centuries-old Romanesque church and pilgrimage site, home to Saint Sara, patron saint of travelers, with stunning rooftop views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crypt of Saint Sarah
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Centuries-old Romanesque church and pilgrimage site, home to Saint Sara, patron saint of travelers, with stunning rooftop views.
"A must-visit for its history, art, and faith, offering breathtaking views and a unique cultural experience."
🎯 Climb the Roof for Views
Don't miss the cheap rooftop access for stunning town and sea vistas! Bring your camera. :camerawithflash:
🙏 Respect Ceremonies
Entry to the church interior is free, but avoid visiting during ceremonies. :pray:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Crypt of Saint Sara
Crypt
See the revered statue of Saint Sara, patron saint of travelers, adorned with robes and coats.
Rooftop Views
Church Rooftop
Climb to the top for breathtaking panoramic views of the town and the Mediterranean Sea.
Ancient Pagan Altar
Crypt
Discover a remarkable 4th BC century pagan altar, a testament to the site's ancient history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Serenity
Understanding Saint Sara's Significance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Climb the Roof for Views
Don't miss the cheap rooftop access for stunning town and sea vistas! Bring your camera. :camerawithflash:
🙏 Respect Ceremonies
Entry to the church interior is free, but avoid visiting during ceremonies. :pray:
🚶♀️ Explore the Town
The church is the soul of this dreamlike village, rich in history and art. :world_map:
🌅 Sunset Spectacle
Visiting late offers beautiful sunset views from the roof, but expect more people. :city_sunset:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Climb the Roof for Views
Don't miss the cheap rooftop access for stunning town and sea vistas! Bring your camera. :camerawithflash:
🙏 Respect Ceremonies
Entry to the church interior is free, but avoid visiting during ceremonies. :pray:
🚶♀️ Explore the Town
The church is the soul of this dreamlike village, rich in history and art. :world_map:
🌅 Sunset Spectacle
Visiting late offers beautiful sunset views from the roof, but expect more people. :city_sunset:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Church of Our Lady of the Sea for its profound history, spiritual significance, and breathtaking rooftop views. The reverence for Saint Sara and the unique cultural heritage of the Camargue are frequently highlighted as major draws. While the church itself is free to enter, the affordable fee for the rooftop experience is considered excellent value. Some visitors note that it can get crowded, especially during peak times and festivals.
"This beautiful church, built in the 9th and 11th centuries on an old Gallo-Roman sanctuary, replaced an oratory that, according to legend, was erected by the Saints. This site was fortified in order to withstand attacks by the Saracens. Human figures can be seem emerging from the capitals decorated with plant motifs. The crypt (1448) houses Sarah, patron saint of Gypsies, covered with robes and coats. The boat of the Saints Marys is in the left alley of the church. The 4th BC century pagan altar in the crypt is also remarkable.
Church of Our Lady of the Sea is the soul of the village. Legend has it that Sara was a young black slave with mysterious origins. She is said to have accompanied Marie Jacobé and Marie Salomé on their arrival in the Camargue. The latter would have been the first to welcome Jesus on European soil, during his journey to Egypt. Saint Sara is thus considered the patron saint of all travelers and itinerants.
Today, the festival of Sainte Sara is one of Camargue’s must-see events. Every year, it attracts large numbers of visitors for the procession, mass and festivities. The chapel of Sainte Sara is located in the church of Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer. It is an important place of worship and meditation for gypsies and pilgrims.
Sainte Sara, also known as Kali sara la noire, has thus become a symbol of Camargue identity. It bears witness to the richness and cultural diversity of this region of southern France.
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The town of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, is a Mecca for gypsy culture and the festival of Saint Sara each year in May ..."
Enjoy life
"We visited the remarkable Church of Notre-Dame-de-la-Mer in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, a small town about an hour by bus from Arles station. My first impression of this town was truly special—it felt almost dreamlike. I felt as if I were stepping into the legend of the Three Marys, who, according to tradition, landed here 2,000 years ago.
Before my visit, I researched the church’s history and learned about the local Provençal poet and Nobel Prize winner, Frédéric Mistral, whose famous poem Mireio is deeply connected to this region. One of the most remarkable artists associated with this town is Vincent van Gogh. While living in Arles, he visited Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer and painted several masterpieces inspired by its unique scenery.
The church holds all these incredible stories within its walls. I climbed to the rooftop, where I was rewarded with a breathtaking view of the town and the ocean in the background. If you’re a Christian or a Van Gogh enthusiast, this town is a must-visit. Even for travel bloggers, the experience is truly unforgettable, offering a journey through history, art, and faith."
YMK WEBFEST
"Really nice church! You can visit the top of the church and it is very cheap! You can get the tickets at the entry before you go up the stairs.(make sure not to go too late in the evening because it gets quite crowded, on the other hand you will be able to see a beautiful sun set so it's for you to decide.) Once arrived at the top you can enjoy a stunning view over the town! Make sure you bring your camera :). Once you finished the roof tour you can go back down and enjoy the inside of the church. The entry for the inside of the church is free and very nice too but make sure you don't go when they are having a ceremony."
Alicia Ulbrich
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can take a bus from Arles station to Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, which takes about an hour. The church is centrally located in the village.
Parking is available in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, though it can be challenging during peak season or festivals. Consider arriving early.
If you are staying in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, the church is easily accessible on foot as it's the heart of the village.
The most common approach is via Arles, either by car or by taking a bus from the Arles train station.
While specific tours to the crypt might be limited, local guides in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer can offer insights into the church's history and significance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the main church is free. There is a small, affordable fee to access the rooftop for panoramic views.
The church is generally open daily, but it's advisable to check specific hours, especially if you plan to visit during religious ceremonies or outside of peak tourist season.
No advance booking is typically required for general entry to the church or the rooftop. Tickets for the roof can be purchased at the entrance.
The crypt is accessible during the church's opening hours. It's recommended to visit when there are no ongoing ceremonies for a more contemplative experience.
Photography is generally allowed inside the church, but it's respectful to avoid flash and refrain from taking pictures during services.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Saint Sara is revered as the patron saint of travelers and itinerants, with her statue housed in the crypt. She is a central figure for Romani people and pilgrims.
Inside, you'll find inspiring shrines, the boat of the Three Marys, and a rich history. The crypt houses Saint Sara and a 4th BC century pagan altar.
Absolutely! The rooftop offers stunning views of the town and the sea, and it's a very affordable experience.
Late afternoons offer beautiful golden hour light for photography, especially from the rooftop. Sunsets can also be spectacular.
Yes, the church boasts a 4th BC century pagan altar in the crypt and human figures emerging from capitals decorated with plant motifs.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer is a charming village with many restaurants offering local Provençal cuisine and seafood.
You can enjoy fresh seafood, traditional Provençal dishes, and local specialties. Many eateries offer outdoor seating.
While some restaurants can be upscale, you can find more casual cafes and bakeries offering affordable snacks and light meals.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, often featuring fresh vegetables and local produce. It's always good to ask about options.
Yes, dining in the village surrounding the church enhances the experience, allowing you to soak in the local atmosphere.
📸 📸 Photography
The rooftop offers incredible panoramic views. The church's facade and interior, especially the crypt, also provide unique photographic opportunities.
Yes, photography is generally permitted inside the church, but please be respectful and avoid flash, especially during services.
Late afternoons provide beautiful golden hour light for stunning shots. Sunsets from the rooftop are also highly recommended.
Yes, you can photograph the Saint Sara statue in the crypt, but be mindful of other visitors and the sacred nature of the site.
Look for the human figures on the capitals, the ancient pagan altar, and the unique boat of the Three Marys. The fortified architecture itself is also striking.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the church interior is serene, the surrounding village of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer offers a pleasant atmosphere for a family stroll. You can find ice cream shops and casual eateries, making it easy to keep everyone happy. The beach is also nearby, offering a chance for kids to play after exploring the historical site.
🚶 Budget Travelers
To keep costs down, consider packing a picnic to enjoy by the sea or opting for casual bakeries and cafes in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer for meals. Taking public transport from nearby towns like Arles is also a more economical option than driving and paying for parking, especially during busy periods.
🎨 Art & History Enthusiasts
The connection to artists like Vincent van Gogh adds another layer of appeal. Visiting the church and its surroundings allows you to see the landscapes that inspired his iconic works. The town itself, with its unique atmosphere, feels like stepping into a painting.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legend of Saint Sara and the Three Marys
The church itself, a formidable Romanesque structure built in the 9th and 11th centuries, was fortified to withstand Saracen attacks, reflecting its historical importance. Within its walls, you can find the 'boat of the Three Marys' and an ancient 4th BC century pagan altar in the crypt, underscoring the site's deep historical and spiritual layers. The blend of Christian pilgrimage and ancient pagan roots makes this a unique spiritual destination.
A Haven for Art and Culture
For travelers, this artistic legacy adds another dimension to the visit. The church's striking architecture and the surrounding dreamlike landscape offer a glimpse into what inspired these great artists. Even for those not specifically interested in art history, the town's atmosphere, immortalized by Van Gogh, provides a memorable and visually rich experience. The rooftop views, in particular, offer a perspective that might have inspired some of his most famous seascapes.
Experiencing the Annual Festival of Sainte Sara
While the festival offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness deep-rooted traditions and experience the lively spirit of the region, it's important to be prepared for significant crowds. Accommodation and transport should be booked well in advance. For those seeking a more tranquil visit, it's advisable to plan your trip outside of these dates. However, for travelers interested in cultural immersion and witnessing a unique spiritual gathering, the festival is an unforgettable experience.
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