Notre-Dame-de-la-Mer Church

If you want to go down the steps to the crypt and light a candle, you should duck your head - the entrance is not as high as it seems 😉

Built near the mouth of the Petit-Rhône, the church of Saintes Maries de la Mer had an important strategic position. At the time of its construction, in the 9th and 12th centuries, the pirates on the coast were a threat and it was necessary to defend against invasions. The church dominates the village and is visible 10 km from inland. It is a real fortress, formed from a single, straight nave, without ornament and 15 meters high. The roof is surrounded by a walkway, with battlements.
The choir and apse are surmounted by a semi-circular dungeon containing the old guardhouse room, the "upper chapel". The walls of the church were pierced with loopholes. It also served as a refuge for the population during a siege and there is even a freshwater spring. Today, the statue of Sara, an essential part and heritage of the Gypsies, stands in the crypt, to the right of the altar. Also note, the church also contains a pagan altar from the 4th century BC. From the roof (can be visited) you have a beautiful view of the surroundings.

Beautiful church - as a highlight, all sure-footed and giddiness-free visitors can climb the roof and enjoy the magnificent view from up there.