Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer is usually just another Mediterranean beach resort town which doubles as the “capital” of the Camargue wetlands region. For two days in May, however, it is a meeting point for Romani from across France and Europe who come to ritually bathe in the waters here. This is done in honor of the Three Marys, regarded as the first witnesses of Jesus’ resurrection, and their servant Sarah the Black, unofficial patron saint of the Romani people. Throughout the rest of the year, the relics associated with this pilgrimage can be…
