Provencal tradition: santons and santon makers in the Var
The santons of Provence are the emblems of our magnificent region! As soon as December rolls around, they come out of the boxes and embellish the cribs set up next to the Christmas tree. Every year, enthusiasts expand their collections to create ever more impressive and magical scenes.
You’re probably familiar with the most popular santons on the market: the stable, the washhouse, the mill, the well and the olive tree. But the most emblematic santon of Provence is certainly the delighted wolf with his arms in the air!
Over time, santon makers have adapted to the demands and desires of collectors. Yes, today there are all kinds! Find out more about santons de Provence and santonniers du Var in our blog article.
The history of santons de Provence
The story begins in the 13th century, when St. Francis of Assisi created the first crib in the Greccio grotto in Italy.
Then, in the 19th century, around the time of the French Revolution, nativity scenes made their appearance in homes. Provençals began to make or buy “little saints” (“santouns” in Provençal) to make their own nativity scenes. Thus was born the craft of santon-making. Over time, santons have become a specialty of Provence!
Today, nativity scenes usually depict a typical Provencal village and its countryside.
Where can you find the most beautiful santons de Provence?
During the winter season, you’re sure to come across santon makers and/or sellers.
A few weeks before Christmas, many santonniers organize workshops or exhibitions at their facilities. You’ll discover their craftsmanship, and you’ll certainly be able to add to your collection!
Christmas markets are also a great place to find what you’re looking for. They are home to numerous santon makers, who will undoubtedly amaze you with the diversity of their santons. The choice is between modern and traditional. One thing’s for sure, there’s something for everyone!
So what to choose? Where to turn? We’ve selected some of the Var’s santonniers, Christmas markets and santon fairs, where you’ll find everything you need!
Christmas markets and santon fairs
Wooden chalets, garlands of lights, illuminated fir trees, churros, mulled wine… A magical atmosphere, in the run-up to Christmas, present at all the regional markets you’ll visit!
Every year, many of you take to the aisles of fairs and markets in search of the most beautiful santons de Provence.
To help you find what you’re looking for, we’ve listed the towns and villages in the Var region where you’ll be able to find magnificent santons and add to your collection.
- The Hyères market,
- Toulon market,
- The Santon market and fair in La Garde,
- La Crau market,
- Valletta market,
- The santon fair in Saint-Maximin.
The Paul Garrel workshop in Rocbaron
Go to 5 impasse des Fifres in Rocbaron, in a small alley, to discover the workshop of Paul Garrel, artisan santonnier from the Var. His santons de Provence are made of clay.
For more information, here’s the link to the Paul Garrel website.
Lagrange santons in Toulon
In the heart of Toulon, you’ll find this small workshop opened by Jean-Gabriel Lagrange and maintained by his daughter Bernadette. Head to 20 rue Antoine Bonnet… you’ll find everything you need and more!
Find out more on their website.
Association la Farigouleto in La Garde
In the narrow streets leading up to La Garde rock, at 86 rue du Jeu de Paume, you’ll find the Farigouleto association. Here you’ll find people with a passion for Provence, and some wonderful santons for your collection!
Claude Carbonel’s workshop in Le Pradet
Come and meet Claude Carbonel, santonnier from Marseille since 1966, at 215 chemin de la Bayette in Le Pradet. His santons are designed and decorated by hand, in unique pieces.
Book your stay at one of our partner campsites in Giens
During the winter season, Christmas markets and santon fairs are events not to be missed! Take advantage of your stay at one of our campsites on the Presqu’Île de Giens to discover the magnificent traditions of Provence.
Come to Camping Clair de Lune for vacations based on the theme of “calm and serenity”; to Camping International for vacations based on the theme of “fun and sport”; and to Camping Île d’Or for vacations based on the theme of “authenticity and nature”.
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