Santons: a Provencal tradition
As temperatures gradually drop and the festive season approaches, Provençal traditions are in full swing. While the famous thirteen desserts are a gourmet's delight, there's another custom that keeps families busy: the composition of the crib.
Every year, after a few rains, young and old alike scour the hills of Provence Sud Sainte Baume in search of a few patches of moss. The green moss will dress the floor of the crib. Then, once the bed has been placed in a fireplace or at the foot of the fir tree, the construction of the village begins.
This is when the santon appeared. Each clay statuette represents a character, an animal or an establishment typical of Provence. Among the most famous santons are the baker, the shepherd, the lamb and, of course, religious figures such as Mary, Joseph and the Magi. The Infant Jesus is traditionally positioned on Christmas Day, December 25.
Good to know: just a few kilometers away, in the Bouches-du-Rhône region, lies the town of Aubagne. This town in the land of Marcel Pagnol is the international capital of santons. Buy statuettes and visit santon makers' workshops...
The santon parade in La Cadière d'Azur
In December, the charming village of La Cadière d'Azur hosts a very special nativity scene. And it's a life-size costume parade that dazzles young and old every year.
Traditional santons come to life, dressed in their typical Provencal garb. A magical moment that immerses locals and visitors alike in the preparations for Christmas. Customs that are dear to the hearts of the locals, always synonymous with authenticity and good cheer.
Practical information
- All in all: take part in a traditional Provencal event!
- Dates: in December.
- Location: in the village of La Cadière d'Azur.
- Program: costume parade and live nativity scene.
- Directions: La Cadière d'Azur lies to the east of the Provence Sud Sainte Baume destination, next to the communes of Saint-Cyr-sur-mer and Le Castellet. Click here for Google Maps location.
- Contact: Maison du Tourisme, 04 94 90 12 56 or contact@tourisme-lacadieredazur.fr.
