The Sainte-Baume massif forms the heart of the eponymous regional nature park created by decree of December 20, 2017. This natural park covers part of the Var and Bouches-du-Rhône departments over 208,060 acres (84,200 ha), of which 80% are natural spaces. Rich in a great diversity of environments and remarkable species, it is home to three Natura 2000 sites and a relic forest labeled as exceptional. The massif's geological heritage gave rise to the thrusting notion at the origin of the continental drift and plate tectonics principles. Finally, it enjoys international renown because of the tomb of Sainte Mary Magdalene, the third tomb of Christianity located in Saint-Maximin, and the religious and companion pilgrimages to the Sainte Marie-Madeleine cave.