The sanctuary's historical significance is tied to the 1638 royal pilgrimage that preceded the birth of the future 'Sun King', Louis XIV.
The original apparition site is marked by a specific stone, which remains a focal point for modern pilgrims.
The sanctuary houses a vast archive of ex-votos, some dating back to the 16th century, providing a visual history of local religious devotion.
The site is one of the few places in the world that combines an apparition site with both a historic Marian shrine and a nearby site dedicated to Saint Joseph.
The architecture reflects typical Provençal religious design, characterized by simple stone work and heavy vaulted ceilings intended to withstand local climate conditions.
The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Graces in Cotignac is a significant Marian pilgrimage site situated on Mount Verdaille in the Provence region. Its origin dates back to 1519, following the reported apparition of the Virgin Mary to a local woodcutter named Jean de la Baume. The current sanctuary building was consecrated in 1521 after a period of rapid construction prompted by a sudden influx of pilgrims. The site gained royal recognition when King Louis XIII and Queen Anne of Austria visited in 1638, attributing the birth of the future Louis XIV to their prayers here. The interior features a collection of hundreds of ex-voto paintings and plaques, documenting centuries of answered prayers and interventions. It remains an active religious site managed by the Community of Saint John. The sanctuary is composed of the main chapel, a cloister, and surrounding wooded grounds designed for quiet reflection. It overlooks the village of Cotignac and the surrounding Var landscape.
The elevated stone terrace located just outside the chapel entrance, which offers a panoramic view of the valley below.
Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes, as the path from the base of the hill to the sanctuary involves a steep, uneven incline.
Bring a hat and water, as the path and grounds offer limited shade during the peak of the Provençal summer.
Visit the secondary site nearby dedicated to Saint Joseph, which is connected to the same pilgrimage route.
Attempting to drive directly to the summit if you are not prepared for very narrow, winding, and steep access roads.
Visitors are expected to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, and to maintain silence in the chapel areas.
