Close to Palavas beach exhales the supernatural flavour of an immobilized past in peaceful eternity. At Maguelon, an atmosphere of order and tranquility dominates : vineyards in perfect alignment, the calm waters of the lagoons hardly disturbed by the presence of birds; then right in the middle of it all, protected from stares by large pines is the Cathedral of first Roman art.

Yet, in this atmosphere of peace and tranquility was once great turmoil. During the era of the Wisigoths, this island was inhabited and governed by a comte. At the same time, the religious power is installed and Maguelone becomes bishopric.

Bishop Arnaud in the 11th Century rebuilt a sanctuary and constructed a bridge to link Maguelone to Villeneuve. The works continued into the 12th Century under the direction of the bishop Jean de Montlaur. Maguelone became a property of Rome and experienced considerable prestige. Several popes visited it and those in difficulty in Rome momentarily sought refuge.

Overcome by the muslims who came from Spain, the port and the city were destroyed by Charles Martel in the year 737.

In 1632, Villeneuve was the site of battle between the royal troop of Louis XIII and the one of his brother Duc d'Orleans. The rebels were defeated and Richelieu ordered the destruction of the fort and castle of Maguelone. The cathedral was partly spared, but the blow was hard and Maguelone will not revive from its assault

The cathedral is opened from 9 A.M to 6 P.M. In the summer, the car must be left alone on the Palavas-side parking or on the Maguelone-side, in order to take little touristic train

In July, a music festival is being held in the cathedral.