Globalizing romani culture: the pilgrimage to the sea in Les-Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer (France).

Abstract

This chapter examines the cult of Saint Sarah in Saintes Maries de la Mer, in the Camargue (France), where the gypsy saint, who is not officially recognized by the Catholic Church, is the subject of strong devotion among Roma communities. Romani pilgrims return each year to pay homage to Sarah at Saintes Maries de la Mer. The chapter also describes how the cult of Saint Sarah has been exported by tourist-pilgrims to Brazil, and has become an element of Umbanda rituals.