Rooftop terrace of the church of the Holy Marys of the Sea, Rooftop terrace of a church in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, France
The Toit Terrasse de l'église des Saintes Maries de la Mer is a rooftop terrace set atop the Notre Dame de la Mer church, right in the center of the village of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer. From up there, the view covers the village rooftops, the Mediterranean to the south, the coastal road and Gacholle lighthouse to the east, the Etang des Launes to the west, and the Alpilles hills to the north.
The Notre Dame de la Mer church was built in the 9th century to hold the relics of Saints Marie Jacobé and Marie Salomé, and it was given a fortress-like form with thick walls to protect them. Over the following centuries, it became a destination for pilgrims from across Europe, including members of the Romani community who come to venerate Saint Sara.
The name of the village and its church refers to the two Marys who, according to tradition, are said to have landed on this shore. From the roof terrace, visitors can watch the annual pilgrimage processions winding through the streets below.
The staircase leading to the terrace is narrow and steep, so wearing sturdy shoes is a good idea. Opening hours vary by season and access is especially reliable during the Journées du Patrimoine, so checking locally before your visit is advisable.
On clear days, the terrace offers a view of white Camargue horses and bulls grazing in the marshes just outside the village. It is one of the few spots where you can see the sea and these free-roaming animals at the same time, in a single glance.
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