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Église Saint-Jean-de-Malte: A Gothic Masterpiece in Aix-en-Provence

Explore Aix-en-Provence's first Gothic church, a historic landmark with stunning architecture, art, and a rich connection to the Knights Hospitaller.

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Discover the Église Saint-Jean-de-Malte, Aix-en-Provence's first Gothic church, built in the 13th century by the Knights Hospitaller. Admire its soaring bell tower, historical art, and connection to Provence's past.

A brief summary to Saint Jean de Malte

Local tips

  • Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the stained glass windows and the interior's luminosity.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the adjacent Granet Museum to explore its fine art collections.
  • Check the parish website for mass schedules and special events.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Saint-Jean-de-Malte is centrally located in Aix-en-Provence and easily accessible on foot from most points within the city center. From the Cours Mirabeau, walk south along Rue d'Italie for approximately 5 minutes. The church will be on your left, at the intersection with Rue Cardinale. The Granet Museum is adjacent to the church.

  • Public Transport

    Aix-en-Provence has a good public bus system. You can take a bus to a stop near the city center and walk a short distance to the church. A single trip ticket costs €1.70. Tickets can be purchased on board.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Aix-en-Provence. A short ride from the train station or another location in the city center to Saint-Jean-de-Malte will typically cost between €8 and €12, depending on traffic and distance.

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Discover more about Saint Jean de Malte

The Église Saint-Jean-de-Malte, standing at the intersection of Rue d'Italie and Rue Cardinale, marks a captivating landmark in Aix-en-Provence. As the first Gothic church in Provence, its construction in the 1270s represented a shift from the region's traditional Romanesque style. The church was erected by Raymond-Bérenger IV, Count of Provence, for the Knights Hospitaller of Saint John of Jerusalem. Originally built outside the city walls, amidst olive groves, Saint-Jean-de-Malte served as a sanctuary. In the 17th century, the expansion of Aix incorporated the church into the city as part of the Quartier Mazarin. During the French Revolution, the church suffered the loss of its furnishings and was repurposed as a military storehouse. However, in the 19th century, it was restored to its religious purpose. The church's bell tower, completed in 1376, reaches 67 meters, making it the highest point in Aix-en-Provence. Inside, admire the stained glass windows and notable paintings, including a Crucifixion by Delacroix. The church is adjacent to the Granet Museum, housed in the former priory of the Knights Hospitaller. Today, the church is under the care of a brotherhood of apostolic monks.

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