Saint Mary Magdalene

"S. Mariae Magdalenae Poenitentis" refers to Saint Mary Magdalene the Penitent. In Christian tradition, Mary Magdalene is often depicted as a penitent, a sinner who repented and devoted her life to following Jesus Christ.

One of the most famous depictions of Mary Magdalene as a penitent is a wooden sculpture by the Italian Renaissance sculptor Donatello, usually dated to around 1440. This sculpture, known as the "Penitent Magdalene," was probably commissioned for the Baptistery of Florence. The piece is renowned for its unprecedented realism and is now housed in the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo in Florence.

The sculpture conveys Mary Magdalene's sorrow and repentance, drawing viewers into a world of introspection. Through intricate carving and subtle features, Donatello captures human frailty and divine redemption, inviting timeless contemplation. This depiction of Mary Magdalene as a penitent reflects the period’s emphasis on penitence and redemption.

It's important to note that the term "penitent" in her title refers to her repentance and spiritual renewal following her encounter with Jesus Christ⁴. This is a significant aspect of her story and her role in Christian tradition.

Mary Magdalene is said to have traveled to Marseille, France, after the death of Jesus. According to Provençal tradition, she arrived in France near Arles, at a place now called Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer. From there, she is said to have gone to Marseille and converted the locals to Christianity.

After her missionary work in Marseille, Mary Magdalene is believed to have retired to a cave in La Sainte-Baume Mountain, where she spent several years in prayer and contemplation. This cave, known as the "Holy Cave" or "Baumo" in the Provençal language, is now a Christian pilgrimage site.

At the time of her death, it is believed that she was buried in an oratory built by the first Christians. Today, this oratory is located in a town called Saint-Maximin-la-Sainte-Baume. Some of her remains are said to reside in the Basilica of Mary Magdalene in this town.

This rich vein of tradition about Mary Magdalene's life in Provence has inspired numerous monuments and continues to draw visitors from around the world. Her story is a significant part of the religious history of this region.

(1) Mary Magdalene in Provence Legend or Fact. https://perfectlyprovence.co/mary-magdalene-provence-legend/.

(2) Mary Magdalene's tomb in France: Exploring Saint-Maximin-la-Sainte-Baume. https://snippetsofparis.com/saint-maximin-la-sainte-baume/.

(3) Sainte-Baume - Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sainte-Baume.

(4) Saint-Maximin-la-Sainte-Baume - Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint-Maximin-la-Sainte-Baume.

(5) Saint Mary Magdalen, the Beautiful Penitent - Catholicism.org. https://catholicism.org/mary-magdalen.html.

(6) Penitent Magdalene (Donatello) - Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Penitent_Magdalene_%28Donatello%29.

(7) "Penitent Magdalene" by Donatello - A Detailed Analysis - artincontext.org. https://artincontext.org/penitent-magdalene-by-donatello/.

(8) Penitent Magdalen - The Collection - Museo Nacional del Prado. https://www.museodelprado.es/en/the-collection/art-work/penitent-magdalene/1f0c2f5f-5eed-46cc-978f-a4a301b7dc55.