Located at the gateway to the Camargue, the Abbey Church of Saint-Gilles is a UNESCO-listed jewel of religious heritage. Built as early as the XIᵉ century, its Romanesque and Gothic architecture, sculpted portal depicting the Last Judgement and monumental crypt attract pilgrims and history buffs alike. This spiritual Mecca is part of the Route d’Arles, one of the historic routes to Santiago de Compostela.
A visit to the abbey church takes you back to the Middle Ages, with its radiating chapels, cloister and ancient frescoes. The surrounding village invites you to stroll through the narrow streets marked by the passage of pilgrims. Less than 45 minutes from Le Clos du Rhône campsite, this cultural stopover combines perfectly with a seaside and nature holiday. Discover an emblematic monument nestled between the Rhône delta and the Camargue garrigue.
A major cultural stopover in Petite Camargue
Visit the Abbey of Saint-Gilles in Camargue
Located at the gateway to the Camargue region, the Abbey Church of Saint-Gilles is a marvel ofRomanesque and Gothicarchitecture, and an emblem of the religious heritage of southern France. Listed as a historic monument and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it attracts devotees ofsacred art and history, as well as pilgrims on their way to Santiago de Compostela. Its sculpted façade, peaceful cloister, remarkable capitals and impressive crypt make it a must-see.
Built in the 11th century, this former Benedictine abbey was a spiritual center of the Middle Ages. It retains many of its original features, including a Gothic choir, transept and magnificent radiating chapels. The sculpted portal depicting the Last Judgement and the frescoed nave bear witness to the site’s artistic wealth.
The Abbey, the starting point for an inspiring stay
Take advantage of your visit to the Abbatiale de Saint-Gilles to stay at a campsite in Camargue
Exploring this masterpiece of religious heritage can be the ideal starting point for a rejuvenating camping holiday in the Camargue. Campsites in the region offer a wide range of accommodation, fromspacious pitches to comfortable mobile homes, in the immediate vicinity of natural and cultural treasures. Between sea and marsh, enjoy the peace and quiet of the countryside and the friendly atmosphere of a family campsite.
Extend your discovery with a stroll through the old town of Saint-Gilles, a city marked by the passage of pilgrims, or venture to Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer and the wild landscapes of the Rhône delta.
Whether you’re ahistory buff, a lover ofreligious architecture or simply curious, the Abbatiale de Saint-Gilles will enrich your vacation experience in the Camargue, between culture, spirituality and unspoilt nature.