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The decorated interior of the Basilica of the Rosary in Lourdes

Sanctuary of Lourdes

The Grotto of Massabielle, three basilicas and the nightly torchlight procession.

Photo: Moahim, CC BY-SA 4.0
  • Apparitions1858
  • EntryFree
  • ProcessionEvenings, spring–autumn
  • TimeHalf day

The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes grew up around the grotto where Bernadette Soubirous reported 18 apparitions of the Virgin Mary in 1858. It's visited by millions of people a year, many of them sick or disabled pilgrims accompanied by volunteers.

What to see

  • The Grotto of Massabielle, where pilgrims touch the rock and fill bottles with spring water.
  • The Basilica of the Immaculate Conception and the crypt above the grotto.
  • The Basilica of the Rosary, with golden mosaics.
  • The huge underground Basilica of Saint Pius X.

The torchlight procession

Each evening from spring to autumn, thousands of pilgrims walk with candles, singing the Lourdes Ave Maria. Everyone is welcome to watch or join.

Tips

  • Entry to the sanctuary is free.
  • Dress respectfully and keep quiet near the grotto.
  • Major feast days, such as 15 August, are extremely busy.

Tours: Sanctuary of Lourdes

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The decorated interior of the Basilica of the Rosary in Lourdes
The decorated interior of the Basilica of the Rosary in Lourdes. Photo: Moahim, CC BY-SA 4.0

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