The numerous
antique wrecks loaded with amphorae discovered off Saint Raphael's
coast reveal an intense and prosperous maritime activity during
the Roman era. During Caesar's reign, "Forum Julii" (Fréjus)
was one of Mare Nostrum's biggest ports. Saint Raphael, then called
"Epulias" or "Feasts", became a thriving resort
coveted by rich Romans, who built many beautiful houses there facing
the sea.
After the fall
of the Roman Empire came the era of bloody invasions by barbaric
hordes. The town was pillaged constantly and the Estérel
Hills became a sanctuary for local inhabitants. The monk Saint Honorat,
searching for a place of meditation, lived as a hermit in the hills
before founding an abbey on Lérins Island.
The Archangel
Raphael, who is represented on the town's coat of arms along with
a young boy named Tobit, is at the origin of the town's name. Legend
tells that thanks to Raphael, young Tobie was able to save his father
from blindness.
In the early
19th century the village still had its traditional layout, with
two distinct quarters - the "Village" and the "Marine".
Nobody could have guessed the extraordinary touristic turn the town
would later take. In fact, with the coming of the fashionable "Summer
Season" in the twenties, Saint Raphael blossomed definitively
into today's prestigious and animated holiday destination. The reputation
of Saint-Raphaël is owed largely to the many famous artists,
writers and musicians who came to stay here.
Saint Raphael's
main buildings and streets (Casino, Promenade des Bains, Notre Dame
de la Victoire Church) were built at that time. Many superb Palladian-style
villas also appeared, often designed by the town architect Pierre
Aublé. Within fifteen years, Saint-Raphael had successfully
completed its transformation.
With five different
harbors, Saint Raphael sailing resort is the ideal place for boating
enthusiasts. Along its 42km. of coastline you can discover sandy
beaches, creeks, and inlets, all carved out of the famous red rock
ot the Esterel Mountains. Saint Raphael is also the city ot Var
where tourism and business are one.
You will be
able to discover traditional festivities in every season. There
are joust tournaments, celebrations of St. Baume and St. Pierre,
Mimosa Week, Jazz festivals, and other typical Saint Raphael entertainments.
