Explore Lourdes: A Sanctuary Visited by 6 Million People Annually! Discover 7 Must-Visit Spots Filled with Miracles of the Virgin Mary

Nestled at the foot of the Pyrenees Mountains near the border of France and Spain lies Lourdes, a quaint town with a population of just under 15,000. Despite its small size, Lourdes draws an impressive 6 million visitors each year, many of whom are Christian pilgrims. The town's fame originates from a miraculous event in 1858 when a 14-year-old girl named Bernadette Soubirous witnessed an apparition of the Virgin Mary. Following the Virgin's guidance, she uncovered a spring at the site, whose waters are believed to have healing powers, even curing serious illnesses. Known as the "Lourdes Spring," it continues to attract thousands of ill and hopeful visitors annually. Surrounded by the lush greenery of the Pyrenees and the pristine flow of the Gave de Pau River, Lourdes offers a serene and spiritually uplifting environment. Drawing people from all corners of the globe, it is a place where faith and beauty converge. Here are seven must-visit spots in Lourdes, where miracles and tranquility await you.

1. Sanctuary of Lourdes (Sanctuaires Notre-Dame de Lourdes)

The Sanctuary of Lourdes is the most famous pilgrimage destination in this sacred site. Above the Grotto of Massabielle, where the Virgin Mary is believed to have appeared, stands the Rosary Basilica, radiating an atmosphere of solemnity. A striking feature is the collection of crutches left behind by visitors who believed in the power of miracles. Inside the basilica, 15 large Venetian mosaic panels depict the life of Christ.

Above this, the Immaculate Conception Basilica, built by Father Peyramale in honor of the Virgin Mary's declaration as the “Immaculate Conception,” houses a statue of St. Peter and relics of St. Bernadette. Among the stained glass windows, the scene of Bernadette's meeting with the Virgin Mary is one of the highlights of a visit to Lourdes. The sanctuary also features a waterway drawing holy water from the Lourdes spring, where visitors can be seen filling their bottles.

From early April to late October, a nightly candlelight procession takes place at 9 PM, with participants walking through the sanctuary holding candles. The enchanting glow of candles and the melodies of hymns create unforgettable memories of Lourdes.

2. Château Fort de Lourdes

The town of Lourdes, located at the gateway to the Pyrenees, was a significant military hub long before the Virgin Mary's apparitions. At the heart of the town stands the Château Fort de Lourdes, perched on a small rocky hill along the Gave de Pau River. Originally constructed in the Romanesque style during the 11th century, the castle was expanded in the 13th and 14th centuries into a Gothic fortress. Today, this medieval stronghold serves as the Pyrenean Museum, offering a glimpse into the region's cultural heritage through exhibits of traditional tools, furniture, and costumes.

Another highlight of the castle is the panoramic view of Lourdes from its terrace. You can climb the stairs or take the convenient elevator to enjoy stunning views of the Pyrenees mountains, the forest, and the Immaculate Conception Basilica nestled within the greenery. From the terrace, visitors can take in a 360-degree view of Lourdes' picturesque townscape and its sacred sites.

3. Massabielle Grotto (Grotte de Massabielle)

The Massabielle Grotto is the very site where the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared. It is believed that the Virgin appeared before Bernadette a total of 17 times, once instructing her to drink and wash her face with water from a spring. At first, only muddy water could be found beneath the rocks of the grotto, but over time, the water became clear and is now known as the miraculous "Spring of Lourdes."

The grotto is located to the right of the Basilica, and as you enter, you'll find the water source still flowing on the left-hand side. Countless visitors come in search of this miraculous water, said to cure various ailments. You can purchase bottles at souvenir shops near the holy site to take this water home as a keepsake from your Lourdes pilgrimage.

Interestingly, the rocks around the grotto are polished and glossy. This is the result of countless believers stroking the rocks while praying, a testament to their deep faith in the miracles of the Virgin Mary.

4. Pic du Jer

For a breathtaking panoramic view of Lourdes, head to Pic du Jer, a mountain southeast of the city! A cable car will take you to the 1,155-meter-high summit, offering a sweeping view of Lourdes and its sacred sites. In operation since 1900, this cable car has been carrying visitors for over a century. The observation deck at the summit provides stunning views, and the restaurant terrace offers an equally delightful vantage point, showcasing a 360-degree panorama of Lourdes, the Pau Valley, and beyond.

For outdoor enthusiasts, there's a popular 3-hour hiking trail around the mountain, perfect for a relaxing nature walk. Alternatively, you can take your bike up the mountain via cable car and enjoy an exhilarating downhill ride. If time allows, explore the caves formed 40,000 years ago by glacial erosion for a unique adventure.

5. Sites Associated with St. Bernadette (Sur les Pas de Bernadette)

In Lourdes' old town, one of the key attractions is the birthplace of Bernadette, the daughter of a miller. Visitors can explore her home where she lived until the age of two, as well as the site of the former mill, now a museum. Following in the footsteps of Bernadette, who was later canonized as a saint, is a popular activity for tourists in Lourdes. Bernadette also lived in the Cachot (a former prison) for a year due to her family’s extreme poverty. This small building is easy to miss, so pay close attention while sightseeing!

The site of the former mill has been transformed into a museum, while her birthplace has been restored to depict life as it was during her time. Visitors can even see the room she personally used. Despite the poverty, her family’s life was said to be filled with laughter and joy, offering a glimpse into Bernadette’s humble yet spirited existence. Lourdes has blue guide lines marked on the roads to assist visitors on pilgrimage or sightseeing tours. To follow Bernadette’s path, simply trace the blue line.

6. Lourdes Wax Museum (Musee de Cire de Lourdes)

Lourdes features a wax museum reminiscent of Hollywood’s but with a focus on Christian themes, given its status as a pilgrimage site. The museum showcases significant moments in the life of Bernadette, as well as the life of Jesus, the activities of Popes, and other key events in Christian history. Even those unfamiliar with the religion can enjoy the exhibits thanks to their clear narrative structure.

One highlight is the depiction of Jesus’ life, recreated with 18 wax frescoes in impressive detail. Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper is also presented in wax, allowing visitors to experience it in three dimensions. Enhanced by light and sound effects, the museum offers an immersive experience. Additionally, the museum's balcony provides stunning views of the town of Lourdes, the Pau River, and the Château fort de Lourdes.

7. Sacré-Cœur Church (Église Paroissiale de Lourdes)

The Sacré-Cœur Church, located in the center of Lourdes, was originally a small church where Bernadette was baptized on January 9, 1844. Almost 50 years after the Miracle of Our Lady of Lourdes, it was demolished in 1905, and the current larger church was built. Inside, you can find the baptismal font used during Bernadette’s baptism, statues of John the Baptist and the Virgin Mary, and Bernadette’s baptismal certificate on display. Compared to other major tourist spots, this church is relatively less crowded, allowing you to take your time exploring.

Blue light filters in through the stained glass, creating a solemn atmosphere. Pay attention to the pipe organ at the front and the mosaic depicting scenes from the Bible at the entrance. Often overshadowed by the famous Lourdes pilgrimage site, this church is also a significant destination tied to Bernadette. Be sure to visit.

◎ Summary

Lourdes, a small town in France, draws numerous tourists across the world, especially those of the Catholic faith. Nestled at the foot of the Pyrenees National Park, the region offers postcard-perfect scenery. Along the Pau River, charming water mills dot the landscape, exuding a tranquil charm. Known as a pilgrimage site where miracles began with a poor young girl, Lourdes attracts visitors from all walks of life. Whether or not you believe in its miracles, it’s a destination worth experiencing at least once.

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Explore Lourdes: A Sanctuary Visited by 6 Million People Annually! Discover 7 Must-Visit Spots Filled with Miracles of the Virgin Mary