Église Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption

The Église Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption stands on the high ground of the old town of Saint-Tropez, a short climb from the harbour, and its bell tower is one of the most recognisable shapes on the skyline. The tower is painted in warm ochre and cream, and it rises above the orange roofs and the masts in the port, so it appears in nearly every view of the town from the sea. The church is the main parish church of the old town, and it has served the community for more than two centuries, built in the Baroque style that was popular in Provence in the eighteenth century and completed toward the end of that century to replace an older church that had become too small.

Inside, the church has a typical Provençal Baroque interior, with a wide nave, side chapels and altars decorated with gilding, marble and painted panels. The atmosphere is cool and quiet, especially welcome on a hot summer day when the lanes outside are crowded. The church is also the home of the town's most important religious tradition, since it holds the bust of Saint Torpes, the patron saint after whom Saint-Tropez is named. According to legend, Torpes was a Roman officer from Pisa who was beheaded for his Christian faith under the emperor Nero, and his body was set adrift in a boat with a dog and a rooster, which drifted ashore at the site of the present town. The bust of the saint is the focus of the Bravade de Saint-Tropez, a lively festival held every year in mid-May, in which townspeople in historic costume, musketeers and bands parade through the streets, firing salutes and carrying the bust in procession to the church. It is one of the oldest and most colourful traditions in the south of France and draws large crowds.

The church is open to visitors for free, and donations are welcome. An audio guide may be available to explain the history and the works of art. As an active church, it hosts Masses and cultural events, including concerts, so check the schedule before you visit and keep quiet during services.

The church lies close to many sights. The Citadelle Saint-Tropez, with its Musée de la Marine, stands on the hill nearby, and La Ponche, the old fishermen's quarter, lies below. The Port de Saint-Tropez, with its yachts and cafés, the Place des Lices, famous for its market and games of boules, the Plage de Pampelonne and the capes of Cap Taillat and Cape Camarat are within easy reach. The Jardin des Salins gives a quieter green space.

A visit takes about twenty minutes. It suits anyone who wants to see the spiritual and historical side of Saint-Tropez, and it is a good place to find shade.