Sainte-Baume

The Massif de la Sainte -Baume is a ridge that extends to the south of France, between the departments of Bouches -du -Rhône and Var. Its highest peak, Joug de l' Aigle, reaches 1147 meters.

Geology

The Massif de la Sainte -Baume is a fold mountain. Its geological origin as the Pyrenean folding in the Tertiary in front of around 50 to 100 million years ago, the collision of the Iberian Peninsula and continental Europe. The Mediterranean mountain climate with its humid and mild winters makes the mountains are one of the main water tank of the region and to the headwaters of many rivers. Here arise Huveaune, Veda, Peyruis, Gaudin, Caramy Issole, Gapeau and Fauge. In addition, by draw important underground rivers the area.

Flora and Fauna

Beech and oak forests define the landscape of the massif and have a characteristic flora and fauna habitat, which represents the transition from the forests of the Mediterranean region located along the mid-level Alpine forests. It is home to many rare and endangered species of beetle and the northernmost representative of Provençal Chickweed.

Pilgrimage

According to an old French legend Mary Magdalene came about Saintes- Maries- de -la -Mer in the country and evangelized Provence. She was in a cave on a hill, La Sainte -Baume ( the Provençal word Baumo means cave ), was buried. The cave is a place of pilgrimage today.

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