Église Saint-Jean-de-Malte

At the edge of the Mazarin district, near the Granet Museum, stands Saint-Jean-de-Malte Church, the first Gothic building in Provence and the only one entirely of this style in Aix-en-Provence.

Its construction began between 1272 and 1277, commissioned by the Hospitallers of Saint John of Jerusalem, later known as the Knights of Malta. Built outside the city walls, in what was then open countryside, the church also served as the burial place of the Counts of Provence, including Raymond-Bérenger V and Beatrice of Savoy.

A Gothic Structure with Provençal Elegance

The west façade has a fortress-like aspect, with two octagonal towers pierced by loopholes — a reminder of the church’s military heritage. Its austerity is softened by a magnificent four-meter (13ft) rose window that bathes the interior in light.

The bell tower, rising 67 meters (almost 220 ft) high, remains the tallest point in Aix-en-Provence, a visible symbol of faith across the cityscape.

A Light-Filled Interior and Artistic Heritage

Stained-glass windows, including the great 1854 window depicting the Baptism of Christ, illuminate the choir. The replica of the Counts of Provence’s tombs, destroyed during the Revolution, recalls the church’s noble past. A modern organ, installed in 2006, continues the sacred musical tradition.

From Revolution to Renewal

During the French Revolution, Saint-Jean-de-Malte was stripped of its treasures and turned into a hay storehouse after the suppression of the Order of Malta in 1792.

Rescued from decay by local believers, the church was restored to religious service by Bishop Champion de Cicé in 1802, becoming once again a parish church.

Since 1977, it has been entrusted to the Fraternity of Apostolic Monks, who ensure both the spiritual life and the preservation of this historic site.

The Return of Napoleon’s Bells – A Voice Restored After 200 Years

In 2018, three historic bells, originally cast at the end of the 18th century as a tribute to Napoleon I, were finally installed in the bell tower of Saint-Jean-de-Malte.

After more than 225 years of silence, their chime once again echoes over the Mazarin district, symbolizing the resilience of both the monument and the city’s spiritual heritage.

Their return is not only the restoration of a forgotten sound, but also a reminder of the living faith and enduring history that continue to define Aix-en-Provence.

A Living Monument of Faith and Heritage

Listed as a Historic Monument in 1840, Saint-Jean-de-Malte remains open to visitors all year round, welcoming both worshippers and tourists.

It is open Monday to Thursday and weekends from 10 a.m. (10h00) to 11:45 a.m. (11h45) and from 3 p.m. (15h00) to 7 p.m. (19h00), and Fridays from 11 a.m. (11h00) to 12 p.m. (12h00) and 3 p.m. (15h00) to 7 p.m. (19h00)

Mass is celebrated daily at noon (12h00) and on Sundays at 6 p.m. (18h00)