Eglise Notre-Dame des Sablons
Aigues-Mortes, Occitania, 30220
With its time-worn stone façade and stark interiors, the Eglise Notre-Dame-des-Sablons might not rank high on the list of France’s most beautiful churches—but it does hide a turbulent history. Ransacked by Protestants in the 16th century, used as barracks during the French Revolution, and finally restored in the 19th century, this Catholic Church has stood the test of time.
The basics
Sightseeing and walking tours of the medieval walled town of Aigues-Mortes often visit Eglise Notre-Dame des Sablons—a guide can provide insight into the church’s fascinating history. Most travelers explore Aigues-Mortes as part of a day trip or multi-day tour to the Camargue National Park, the vast marshy region of southern France known for its lush rice paddies, salt farms, and wildlife-filled wetlands. Tours typically set out from Avignon, Montpellier, or Marseille, all of which lie within day-trip distance.
Things to know before you go
Nature lovers will love the Camargue—this region is famous for its black bulls, pink flamingos, and white horses.
Look out for the late 20th-century stained-glass windows, designed by contemporary painter Claude Viallat and glassmaker Bernard D'honneur.
The church is free to visit, and worshippers are welcome to attend the church services.
The church is accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.
How to get there
The Eglise Notre-Dame des Sablons is in Place Saint-Louis opposite the Tourist Office in central Aigues-Mortes. The church is within the pedestrianized area within the city walls, so you have two options for reaching the church—on foot or by riding the Petit Train tourist train, which stops close by.
When to get there
The church is open daily, but opening times may vary throughout the year, so check at the Tourist Office. The small town can be particularly busy in summer when it’s a popular stop for day-trippers, so get there early if you want to avoid the crowds.
What to see in Aigues-Mortes
The medieval town of Aigues-Mortes sits on the edge of the Camargue National Park and is a popular day trip destination. Highlights include walking the medieval ramparts and climbing the 17th-century Constance Tower, which affords magnificent views over the town and the surrounding marshes. After exploring cobbled lanes full of shops and restaurants, head out for a tour of Aigues-Mortes’ famous pink salt lake, which takes its color from a special algae and is dotted with traditional salt farms.
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