Mary Magdalene in Provence: Intensive & NEW

Following in the footsteps of the queens of France
in search of the real Mary Magdalene

Special event: Festival of the Arrival of the Marys
in Saintes Maries de la Mer

October 3 – 16, 2023

Join global bestseller Kathleen McGowan, and Provence native and recognized guide Veronique Flayol, for this intensive exploration of the legacy of Mary Magdalene in Provence. We begin in Marseilles where we visit some of the earliest and most exceptional evidence of her power as a preacher and charismatic leader in the earliest church. We have multiple opportunities to sit in the presence of her relics, including a special visitation not normally open to the public.

We follow in the footsteps of the queens of France, including the queen mother Louise of Savoy who made a pledge to Mary Magdalene that she would revere her with a pilgrimage if Magdalene would protect her son, King Francis I, in battle. Francis was safe and victorious, and Louise kept her promise. She brought 1000 members of her court to Provence to visit the sites where Magdalene lived and preached, and financed a research mission to determine the true story of Magdalene in Provence.

We will follow that pilgrimage, also taken by a young Anne Boleyn, through the legendary locations associated with Magdalene, and Saints Lazarus and Martha.

We conclude with an exceptional and moving event, a weekend celebration of the arrival of Mary Magdalene and her entourage, “the other Marys” who arrived with her in France and were instrumental in the conversion of France to Christianity – Mary Salome and Mary Jacobe.

For the true lover of all things Magdalene, this journey into the heart of Provence – with two of the world’s experts on Magdalene’s legacy in France – is not to be missed.

Note: Due to limited availability, reservations are on “First Come/First Served basis.

Your Hosts on the Journey

Kathleen McGowan
International bestselling author of The Magdalene Line series, including The Expected One and The Book of Love, both inspired by her own adventures and experiences in this region for almost twenty years. An expert on the early Christian traditions of Southwestern France and the legends of Mary Magdalene and her family, Kathleen will take you to many of the locations which have inspired her current and future books.

Veronique Flayol
Veronique is a lecturer certified by the French Ministry of Culture specializing in pilgrimages and spiritual journeys. She lives in Provence at the foot of the mountain where Mary Magdalene spent the last 30 years of her life. She became close to Mary Magdalene from a young age when with a group of friends, she created the Association Santo Madaleno (from the Provençal, our local language, means St Mary Magdalene) whose purpose is to defend and uphold the traditions. She also has a certification in aromatherapy. She loves to work with the energy and the spirit of the plants, she prepares her own meditation oils and organizes workshops to make onctions to pay tribute to Mary Magdalene.

PROVENCE TOUR ITINERARY

Day 1-Tuesday, October 3: to Marseille (D)
Arrival in Marseille. After clearing baggage, transfer on your own to our reserved hotel accommodations. This evening we will meet Kathleen and Veronique for our welcome dinner.

Day 2-Wednesday, October 4: In Marseille (B/L/D)
Founded by the Phoenicians 2,600 years ago, Marseille is the oldest city in France. This is also the place where Mary Magdalene preached with Lazarus when they landed in Provence. After a panoramic drive following the Corniche we’ll first stop at the Basilica Our Lady of Guard (Notre Dame de la Garde). The basilica is surmounted by a golden Virgin who protects the city. Before being a Golden Virgin, Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde was a black Madonna housed in a modest chapel in a fort overlooking Marseille. Then, we’ll visit Saint Victor Abbey and the ancient crypts, considered as the most important burial place in pre-Christian times. It was the refuge of the first Christians guided by Mary Magdalene and Lazarus. In the ancient caves, we can admire the magnificent Black Madonna “Our Lady of Confession.” Roni will tell you her personal devotion due to a miracle Our Lady of Confession made for her grandfather. After lunch, we’ll visit the oldest district of the city, called Le Panier (the basket) where Magdalene and Lazarus preached on the steps of the temple dedicated to Diana and stop at the Cathedral “Sainte Marie Majeure” where Lazarus’ relics are kept. Dinner and overnight at our hotel.

Day 3-Thursday, October 5: In Marseille (B/L)
After breakfast, we leave Marseille to go to St Maximin to visit the Basilica and do our first encounter with Mary Magdalene. The basilica contains the relics of Mary Magdalene, making it Christianity’s third most important tomb. Building work began in 1295 on the orders of the future French king Charles II and from the plans of the architect Pierre Le Français. In 1592, the work was definitively interrupted. The basilica’s doorway and the large entrance door were never built. Afterwards lunch at the local restaurant before returning to our hotel in Marseille in the afternoon. Dinner on our own at one of the numerous restaurants on the Vieux Port.

Day 4- Friday, October 6: To Aix en Provence (B/D)
After breakfast we start our journey to the heart of Provence and Aix en Provence. Strolling around the historical city center, we will visit the cathedral. The first church of Aix en Provence was built on the site of the preaching of Maximin and Magdalene. That’s why, everywhere in the cathedral, Mary Magdalene’s presence is found. We’ll end the visit at the 17th century chapel where a Black Madonna, Notre-Dame-de-l’Espérance, stands. She is carrying the infant Jesus on her knees. After lunch on your own, in the afternoon, we will discover the Roman temple dedicated to Diana. Of the three remaining ancient temples in France, it is the only one still standing in the countryside. This Temple dedicated to Diana is dated from the 1st century BC. Located in a private vineyard, after the visit you will have the opportunity to taste one of the best “Coteaux d’Aix” rosé wine at a special tasting. Return to our hotel for dinner at our hotel.

Day 5- Saturday, October 7: In Aix en Provence (B/D)
Saturday is the big market day at Aix en Provence – Morning at leisure to explore the colorful Provençal market and have lunch on your own in the historical city center. Much of the old town, Vieil Aix, is pedestrian only, made for strolling through its labyrinth of narrow streets. At the same time, you can also appreciate the typical southern atmosphere at the market which transforms places into real color-changing pictures. All stalls are a reflection of Provençal cuisine: natural, fresh, varied and fragrant. We meet in the afternoon for a gourmet visit to the Confiserie du Roy René, which has been making nougat and calissons for several centuries. An emblematic confectionery in Provence, the Calissiond’Aix has its own museum that you can visit! Savored all over the world, this little diamond of sweetness is part of the local gastronomic heritage. You will discover all the secrets of its production and will also be able to taste it. Dinner this evening is at our hotel.

Day 6- Sunday, October 8: In Aix en Provence. Excursion to Ste Baume (B/L)
After breakfast we drive up the mountains to Ste. Baume, the astonishing cavern cathedral carved into the top of a mountain. Enduring local legends indicate that Mary Magdalene lived here after she came to France. In medieval times, royals and nobles came here to visit this remote cliff sanctuary and make the pilgrimage up the hill. So popular was this act of devotion to Mary Magdalene that a “Royal Road” was created to make the ascent easier. The walk is slightly challenging, but if you take your time, it is also beautiful and well worth it. It takes about 45 minutes to make the ascent. After our descent, we visit the small church and convent at the foot of the cliff face, which has some beautiful displays as well as the breathtaking Magdalene murals painted here in the early 1900s. This was the main site welcoming pilgrims – it still is! We will have a picnic lunch before returning to our hotel. Dinner this evening is on your own to go to some of the many restaurants in town.

Day 7-Monday, October 9: In Aix en Provence (B/D)

After breakfast, we will board our coach that will take us to Manosque, a city with a very rich historical heritage. Inside the town, protected by its ramparts, is the small Romanesque church of Notre Dame du Romigier which conceals several treasures. In particular it houses within one of the oldest statues of the Black Madonna, the discovery of which dates back to the year 980. Lunch on our own. Towards the end the day, you will have the opportunity to visit the Occitane factory. L’ Occitanne was born in 1976, when its founder Olivier Baussan, began to distill essential oils and sell them in Provence. Founded on strong principles, a true story and clear commitments centered on the protection of our precious planet and on respect for people. People matter, nature matters! Return to our hotel for dinner.

Day 8- Tuesday, October 10: In Aix en Provence (B/L)
Today, we will discover Mary Magdalene in the Orthodox tradition. The Saint Michel du Var orthodox monastery was built in 1982 and its location was chosen after the miraculous vision of the icon of the Virgin Mary. It has a contemplative location and features a relic of St Mary Magdalene in the crypt where we can gather in prayer. Joy radiates from inside the church thanks to the beautiful 700 square meters of frescoes by Vadim Garine honoring Mary Magdalene and her red mantle of compassion. We will have a light lunch at the monastery and then return to our hotel for a free evening and dinner on our own.

 Day 9- Wednesday, October 11: In Aix en Provence (B/L/D)
After breakfast, we’ll drive to Apt, known in Roman times as Apta Julia, which was the seat of a bishopric. We will visit the Sainte Anne cathedral which brings together more than a thousand years of successive architectural phases, ranging from the Carolingian period to the 20th century. In the lower crypt, built in the 11th century, there is a vault where local tradition has it that the relics of Saint Anne, the ancestress of Christ, were found. In 1623, Queen Anne of Austria received a parcel of the relics of her patron saint, in which she placed all her hopes of obtaining a son. Following the birth of the future Louis XIV, the queen went on pilgrimage to Apt from March 27 to 29, 1660, in order to thank Saint Anne for the fulfillment of her wish by endowing the treasury with precious gifts. The Sainte Anne chapel receives the name of royal chapel and houses the treasure and the relics of the Saint. We will have lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, we will visit an exceptional and authentic site in the heart of the Luberon, Les Agnels distillery promotes and perpetuates the tradition of lavender. This is a wonderful place to see its distillation and discover organic essential oils and a range of cosmetics and scents concocted by the Agnel family. Dinner and overnight at our hotel.

Day 10-Thurday, October 12: To St. Maries de la Mer (B/L/D)
After our hotel check out, we drive to Tarascon. It is here that Martha of Bethany lived and preached. The name of the village comes from the legendary monster, The Tarasque, that lived in the Rhone River and terrorized the local community – until Martha tamed it with love and prayer (and a bucket of holy water). In medieval times, the remains of her home were found on the very spot tradition said she preached, and we will visit her church – she is very much a living force here, as is her sister. Martha’s remains can be seen in the crypt of the cathedral where they have been since she was buried here 2000 years ago. Entrance to the crypt varies from day to day, depending on the church caretaker’s schedule, but we will do our best to gain access. The Souléiado museum, created in 1806, combines the history of Provence and the tradition of manufacturing cotton fabrics. Textiles printed with colorful patterns that were called “Indiennes” and which are today Provençal fabrics. You will discover rare pieces of Provençal costume, marvelous piqués, charming reconstructions of old scenes of daily life in Provence. Then we head to our beachfront hotel in the legendary village of Saintes Maries de la Mer, the place on the Mediterranean Sea where Mary Magdalene came ashore, together with some other members of the holy family and friends. We drive through and into the marshlands known as “The Camargue” where wild white horses and black bulls roam, and pink flamingos migrate from Africa. It is a truly mythical landscape. The town is named after “the Marys” who accompanied Mary Magdalene, Mary Jacobe and Mary Salome – relatives of the Mother of Jesus. The maritime village is charming and known for its connections to gypsy culture. Although we will not be there during the chaos of the festivals (this is a good thing) there is still a flavor of the “gitane” here, where the traditions feel both Spanish and French. This is a village of Flamenco and Paella. We will have four days to explore the history of this special village and learn more about the amazing women who made history here. Overnight and dinner at our hotel.

Day 11-Friday October 13: In Saintes Maries de la Mer (B/D)
After breakfast, it’s a morning walk to the landing beach (directly across from our hotel!) and then on to the extraordinary Church of the Sainte Marys of the Sea. The crypt is where the bones of Sainte Sarah and the two “other” Marys were discovered by Good King Rene d’Anjou during his excavations in the 15th century, and there is a first century stone altar on display which may be the first Christian altar in the world – used entirely by female disciples. The church is indescribable as a treasure trove of history – and perhaps heresy, as the crypt also contains one of the most spectacular black Madonna statues in the world – the nearly life sized image of Sainte Sarah. Balance of the day is free to choose how best to enjoy this special village. Time to enjoy the Mediterranean, where you may choose a boat excursion along the Petite Rhone River and along the shoreline to experience the feeling of arriving on the beaches here (not included, but inexpensive and easily arranged). There is very tempting shopping here for traditional gifts from Provence. Optional excursions can be arranged for riding the white horses (let us know in advance if this is something you want to do). Relax, enjoy the plentiful gypsy music and a pitcher of Sangria! Dinner and overnight at our hotel.

Day 12-Saturday, October 14: In Saintes Maries de la Mer – Special Pilgrimage (B/D)
After breakfast we are invited to visit Carole, a gypsy friend of Roni. Passionate, Carole will make us discover her culture, the caravans that she has restored and fitted out, all in a joyful and festive atmosphere. A place of pilgrimage since the 12th century, the Saintes-Maries de la Mer still hosts a very popular pilgrimage every year. These are Saints, discovered in 1448 during excavations ordered by King René, who are venerated there. It is called Pilgrimage of October, and it is the pilgrimage of the Camargue people and the inhabitants of the region. Lunch on our own before attending the descent of the relics of the Saintes Maries in the church, you will attend a great sound and light show on the beach to pay homage to the Saints and to commemorate their arrival on this same beach 2,000 years ago. Return to our hotel for dinner.

Day 13-Sunday, October 15: In Saintes Maries de la Mer – Special Pilgrimage Continued (B/D)
Breakfast and our pilgrimage continues with a solemn mass of the pilgrimage, presided over by Mgr Christian Delarbre, the new Archbishop of Aix and Arles. This is followed by boarding a boat and a procession and blessing at the sea. Then in the mid-afternoon we have the final ceremony of the raising of the shrines in the church. We return to our hotel for our farewell dinner at our hotel.

Day 14-Monday, October 16: To Marseilles – Tour ends (B)
After breakfast we depart today for Marseilles Airport. Be sure to have your flight departure after 12 noon.

Your Homes for the Journey (or similar)

We have chosen very special locations as our bases for this journey, so you will be immersed in the flavor of the region from the moment you arrive.

Marseilles: The Radisson Blu (3 nights)
Combining comfort and contemporary design, this four-star hotel is the perfect spot for a city break in the heart of Marseille. Our hotel provides the setting for an ideal holiday, business trip, or vacation with family and friends. After enjoying the day exploring, relax by the outdoor pool with a panoramic view, or keep in shape at the fitness center from 6 am to 11 pm. For your convenience also, parking is close to the hotel and the reception is open 24/7.

Aix En Provence: The Grand Hotel Roi Rene (6 nights)
Grand Hôtel Roi René Aix en Provence Centre, four-star hotel, is a five-minute walk from the Cours Mirabeau and downtown Aix. Discover the hotel’s cozy universe and succumb to the relaxing comfort of the MGallery By Sofitel rooms. Enjoy Provencal specialties at La Table du Roi restaurant. Relax on the terrace, by the heated pool (open in the summer) or enjoy the hotel’s fitness room. Certified Allsafe to welcome you under the best conditions.

Hotel Thala Cap: Saintes Maries de la Mer (4 nights)
On the shores of the Mediterranean in the vibrant village of Saintes Maries de la Mer is the charming Hotel Thala Cap facing “the landing beach” where Mary Magdalene and her entourage arrived in France 2,000 years ago. It is a fresh and comfortable ocean front hotel in a natural and authentic setting. Its Camargue architecture offers comfort with a view of the sea or gardens. 

Tour Includes:

• Hotel accommodations as per itinerary
• Daily buffet breakfasts
• Additional lunches and dinners as indicated
• Wine at many meals
• Group transportation within France by coach
• Sightseeing as per itinerary
• All activities described in the itinerary
• Festival of the Arrival of the Marys in Saintes Maries de la Mer
• PLUS Group ceremonies and workshops

 Please read the Terms and Conditions for this program.

** Bonus! SAVE! You will receive a 5% discount if ALL payments are made by check or money order. These discounted prices are noted in red.

*Special No Interest + No Payments for 6 Months Plan Now Available!
Body Mind Spirit Journeys now offers the “PayPal Credit” Plan (Click here for details)

PRICING

ALL INCLUSIVE PRICES FOR 14 DAYS (LAND ONLY)

Price Per Person
Per Person Double Occupancy: $6,599 by check or money order, $6,949 by credit card
Per Person Single Occupancy: $7,919 by check or money order, $8,329 by credit card

Special Discounts:
Alumni (those who have taken one of Kathleen’s international tours in the past) $100 per person
Couples or Family: $200 per family/couple ($100 pp)
Couples or Family Alumni: $300 per family/couple ($150 pp)

There are a limited number of rooms and configurations available. If you are willing to share a room, please let us know and we will do our best to match you up with a roommate with advanced introductions. We will create a private Facebook group for retreat attendees where we can all begin to get acquainted in advance and remain in contact afterward.

PAYMENT SCHEDULE

FIRST NON-REFUNDABLE PAYMENT (Due as soon as possible in order to ensure a place on the tour)
Per Person: $1,500 by check or money order, $1,579 by credit card

FINAL PAYMENT
BALANCE for payments is due in full by August 1, 2023

After you register online you will automatically be re-directed for payment by mail-in check or securely online by credit or debit card.

SOLD OUT
You may register to be waitlisted, but please do not make a deposit payment until we have confirmed your space.

If you have already registered and would like access to the Payment Page, please CLICK HERE.

Travel Insurance
As travel professionals, Body Mind Spirit Journeys highly recommends travel insurance. Sometimes unexpected circumstances can arise. A sudden emergency just before or during your trip could spoil your vacation and deplete your resources.

We have recently seen some of our valued travelers lose not only their non-refundable deposits, but also their entire tour payments because they hoped they would not need trip cancellation insurance.

You should protect your trip investment and yourself in regards to health, property and trip payments. That is why we provide you with an easy way to contact BMSJ’s preferred insurance provider, Allianz Global Assistance. If you need additional information or have questions, please call Allianz directly at 1-800-284-8300, and refer to code F025323.

BMSJ will be sending you additional details and a brochure with your confirmation on trip

Photo credits:
Marseilles: Earth777, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Relics of St. Lazarus, Marseille – World History Encyclopedia – Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike
Teschio ritenuto di S.Maria Maddalena in basilica: Itto Ogami, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Aix-en-Provence Cathedrale Saint-Sauveur: Georges Seguin (Okki), CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Marché aux Fruits et Légumes à Aix-en-Provence: Tmv, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Église Notre Dame de Romigier, Manosque – Vierge noire: © Raimond Spekking
Apt – Cathédrale Ste Anne intérieur: Marianne Casamance, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Fortified church Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer: Wolfgang Staudt from Saarbruecken, Germany, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Costume provençal comtadin: jean-louis zimmerman, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer Sainte Sara: Acoma, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
La double chasse des Saintes à Notre-Dame-de-la-Mer: Fiore S. Barbato (Fiore Silvestro Barbato), CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons