ABBATIALE SAINTE MARIE

The magnificent abbey church of Sainte-Marie, founded in the 10th century, contains a treasure whose main pieces are a sarcophagus from the 3rd century and a piece of silverware from the 15th century representing the head of Saint John the Baptist, the patron saint who protects the village of Quarante.
The reliquary bust is hollow and made of silver plates hammered and chiseled, enhanced with vermeil for the hair and the beard. It is the work of the Montpellier sculptor Jacques Morel, who made it in 1443.
The Saint is represented with his shoulders covered with a sheepskin with tight curls. Seen from the front, St John's face is painful, suffering, almost tortured. Seen from the side, he presents a calm and serene aspect. The face is framed by long, flowing hair and a curly beard.
This treasure is exhibited every year during the feast of Saint John. For this occasion, a mass is given. It is followed by a procession that ends with a big bonfire.

Show less