Our Lady of Lourdes: a complete guide to a successful pilgrimage

History of Our Lady of Lourdes

1. When was the Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes built

The Basilica of the Immaculate Conception

The work on the first basilica at Lourdes, Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, was done following the request expressed by the Virgin Mary via her apparitions to Bernadette Soubirous. This chapel, which can accommodate 700 pilgrims, was built over a crypt, above the Massabielle grotto and its rock from which its foundations rise. The building was constructed between 1866 and 1871, according to the plans of the architect Hippolyte Durand. The consecration of the church took place in 1876.

The Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary

Due to the large number of pilgrims, the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception proved to be insufficient to accommodate everyone from the very beginning of its construction. It was therefore decided to build another church in the 1880s. This was the church of Our Lady of the Rosary, begun in 1883. It was completed in 1889 and consecrated in 1901 to meet the growing demand of visitors.

The St. Pius X Basilica

At the Shrine of Lourdes in the 1950s, a new place of worship was created because one was needed to accommodate the thousands of Christians. The idea was to build something big. Everything was done to ensure that the architecture of the complex around the grotto was harmonious. That is why the Basilica of St. Pius X is built underground. It was built between 1956 and 1958 for the centenary of the apparitions. In the Basilica you can admire "the path of light" which is a series of paintings in gemmail by the artist René Margotton which celebrates the apparitions. The basilica has a modern style and can resemble an overturned ship's hull, the dimensions are impressive.

The Church of Saint Bernadette

Saint Bernadette's Church is the last religious building built in the sanctuary. It was inaugurated in 1988. It is located opposite the Massabielle cave, on the right bank of the Gave de Pau. It is a modern church with partitions that can be removed to accommodate different activities. It was built where Bernadette Soubirous had her last apparition on 16 July 1858. It is the place where all the bishops of France usually meet.

2. Who financed the construction of the Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes?

It was built through the generosity of pilgrims and donors who were touched by the apparitions of the Virgin Mary to Bernadette Soubirous.

3. Why is Our Lady of Lourdes an important place of pilgrimage?

Our Lady of Lourdes is an important place of pilgrimage because it was here that the Virgin Mary appeared to Bernadette Soubirous 18 times in 1858. Since then, millions of pilgrims have travelled to Lourdes to gather and pray in front of the Massabielle cave, where the apparitions took place. Pilgrims come from all religions and nationalities to ask for healing, peace, reconciliation and faith.

Pilgrims come from all religions and nationalities to ask for healing, peace, reconciliation and faith.

4. How many times did the Virgin Mary appear to Bernadette Soubirous at Lourdes?

The Virgin Mary appeared to Bernadette Soubirous 18 times at Lourdes between February and July 1858. The apparitions took place near the grotto of Massabielle, where a miraculous spring was discovered during the ninth apparition.

Pilgrimage to Our Lady of Lourdes

5. What are the important religious events that take place at Our Lady of Lourdes?

There are many important religious events that take place throughout the year at the Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes. International pilgrimages are organised regularly, with celebrations, processions, masses and times of prayer. There are two particularly important pilgrimage periods: the International Pilgrimage to Lourdes in February, and the International Pilgrimage of the Sick in September. These pilgrimages are organised by the Shrines of Lourdes and attract thousands of pilgrims from different countries. Pilgrims can also participate in the Eucharistic procession, the procession of the sick and the procession of the Virgin. There are also prayer vigils, conferences, concerts and exhibitions that take place regularly.

6. How many people visit Our Lady of Lourdes each year?

Millions of pilgrims visit Our Lady of Lourdes every year, coming from all religions and nationalities to worship and pray. Official figures indicate that around 2.5 million pilgrims visited Lourdes in 2022, including around 200,000 sick and disabled people.

7. What are the places to see at Notre Dame de Lourdes?

There are many places to see at Our Lady of Lourdes, such as the Grotto of Massabielle, where the apparitions of the Virgin Mary to Bernadette Soubirous took place, the Basilica of the Rosary, the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, the Basilica of St. Pius X, the Crypt, and the Shrine of Adoration. Pilgrims can also visit the pools of Lourdes, where they can bathe in the water of the miraculous spring.

8. What security measures are in place at Our Lady of Lourdes?

There are security measures in place at Our Lady of Lourdes to ensure the safety of pilgrims. There are security guards present in the sanctuary, surveillance cameras and security checks to enter certain areas. Pilgrims are also asked to observe appropriate rules of conduct and to report any suspicious activity.

Pilgrims are encouraged to report any suspicious activity.

9. What is the role of the Grotto of Massabielle in the story of Our Lady of Lourdes?

The Grotto of Massabielle plays a central role in the history of Our Lady of Lourdes, as it is here that the apparitions of the Virgin Mary to Bernadette Soubirous took place. It is also here that the miraculous spring was discovered. Since then, millions of pilgrims have made the journey to the grotto to meditate and pray.

10. What are the other religious buildings in Lourdes?

There are several other shrines in Lourdes, such as the Basilica of the Rosary, the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, the Basilica of St. Pius X, the Crypt and the Shrine of Adoration. Each of these places offers unique spiritual experiences and prayer opportunities for pilgrims.

11. What is the history of the miraculous spring at Notre Dame de Lourdes?

The miraculous spring at Our Lady of Lourdes appeared during the ninth apparition of the Virgin Mary to Bernadette Soubirous on 25 February 1858. Since then, the water from the spring is considered to have healing powers and miraculous cures have been reported after its use. Pilgrims can bathe in the pools of Lourdes to receive the benefits of the miraculous spring water.

12. What are the different types of pilgrimages organised at Our Lady of Lourdes?

There are different types of pilgrimages organised at Our Lady of Lourdes, such as individual pilgrimages, organised pilgrimages, international pilgrimages, pilgrimages of the sick and youth pilgrimages. There are also special pilgrimages for families, groups of friends, parishes and organisations. It is possible to plan a pilgrimage using the services of a travel agency specialising in pilgrimages to Our Lady of Lourdes or to plan a pilgrimage yourself using the various accommodation and transport options available.

13. What do pilgrims do when they visit Our Lady of Lourdes?

Pilgrims visit Our Lady of Lourdes to meditate and pray, to ask for healing, peace, reconciliation and faith. Pilgrims can participate in the celebrations, processions, masses and times of prayer that take place throughout the year.

14. What is the spiritual significance of Our Lady of Lourdes for believers?

Our Lady of Lourdes is seen as a place of grace and healing for believers. It is seen as a place where faith can be renewed and prayers can be answered. Believers come to meditate, pray, and ask for the support and blessing of the Virgin Mary.

15. What is the link between Our Lady of Lourdes and healing?

There is a close link between Our Lady of Lourdes and healing, as many miraculous cures have been reported after visiting the grotto of Massabielle and after using the water from the miraculous spring. Pilgrims come from all over the world to ask for physical and spiritual healing, and to thank the Virgin Mary for the cures obtained.

Logistics of the pilgrimage

16. What are the opening hours of Our Lady of Lourdes?

The opening hours of Our Lady of Lourdes vary depending on the season and the event. The shrine is generally open every day of the year, with extended hours during pilgrimages and important events. It is advisable to check the hours in advance on the official website of Our Lady of Lourdes.

17. What is the cost of admission to Our Lady of Lourdes?

Entrance to the shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes is free. However, there are additional costs for certain activities or services, such as guided tours. It is recommended that you check the rates before planning your trip to get an idea of potential additional costs.

18. What means of transport are available to get to Our Lady of Lourdes?

There are several means of transport available to get to Our Lady of Lourdes, such as trains, buses, planes and cars. There are also organised transport options available for pilgrimages, such as coaches or pilgrimage trains. It is recommended that you check the different transport options and book in advance to ensure your trip to Our Lady of Lourdes.

19. Where can you stay at Notre Dame de Lourdes?

There are many places to stay in Our Lady of Lourdes, ranging from hotels, gites, youth hostels, campgrounds, bed and breakfasts and holiday homes. There are also accommodation options for organised pilgrimages, such as pilgrimage centres. It is recommended to book in advance to secure your accommodation at Notre Dame de Lourdes.

20. What other pilgrimage sites are associated with Our Lady of Lourdes?

There are other places of pilgrimage associated with Our Lady of Lourdes, such as the Shrine of Our Lady of La Salette, the Shrine of Our Lady of Pontmain, the Shrine of Our Lady of La Garde in Marseille, and the Shrine of Our Lady of Deliverance in Paray-le-Monial. These shrines offer spiritual experiences similar to that of Notre Dame de Lourdes and are often included in pilgrimage itineraries.

21. How to register for an organised pilgrimage to Our Lady of Lourdes?

There are several ways to register for an organised pilgrimage to Our Lady of Lourdes. You can register online on the pilgrimage organiser's website, or by contacting the organiser directly by phone or post. It is important to check the registration deadlines and registration requirements to ensure that you are eligible for the pilgrimage.

22. What documents are needed to participate in a pilgrimage to Our Lady of Lourdes?

The documents needed to participate in a pilgrimage to Our Lady of Lourdes vary depending on the pilgrimage and the organiser. In general, you will need to provide valid proof of identity, proof of religious affiliation (if applicable) and any other documents required by the pilgrimage organiser. It is important to check registration requirements with the pilgrimage organiser before you go.

23. What clothing is appropriate for a pilgrimage to Our Lady of Lourdes?

There is no strict dress code for pilgrims to Our Lady of Lourdes, but it is recommended to wear comfortable and respectful clothing for religious ceremonies and times of prayer. It is also advisable to bring warm, waterproof clothing in case of bad weather. It is also important to check the dress requirements for specific ceremonies.

24. What objects are prohibited in the shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes?

There are items that are prohibited in the Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes, such as firearms or alcoholic drinks. Smoking is also prohibited in the shrine and in the immediate vicinity. It is important to check the rules and restrictions before visiting the shrine to avoid any confusion or problems.

25. Can a personal ceremony or baptism be held at Our Lady of Lourdes?

It is possible to hold a personal ceremony or baptism at Our Lady of Lourdes, but this must be arranged in advance with the shrine officials. It is important to check availability and requirements for holding such a ceremony and to ensure that all administrative formalities are in order.

26. Can we take pets to Our Lady of Lourdes?

It is generally not permitted to bring pets to Our Lady of Lourdes unless they are used for medical or accessibility reasons. It is important to check the pet policies before visiting the shrine to avoid any inconvenience.

27. Can souvenirs be purchased at Our Lady of Lourdes?

There are several souvenir stands at Our Lady of Lourdes where pilgrims can buy items related to their pilgrimage, such as flasks, souvenir coins...We recommend that you drop by one of our 3 shops in Lourdes to buy your rosaries, candles, prayer books, etc.

28. What catering services are available in Lourdes?

There are many restaurants, cafes and food stalls at Our Lady of Lourdes for pilgrims. There are dining options to suit all budgets and tastes, ranging from traditional restaurants to quicker options, such as snacks or sandwiches. It is also possible to book a meal at pilgrimage centres or accommodation for organised pilgrimages.

29. Are there any activities for children at Notre Dame de Lourdes?

There are activities for children at Our Lady of Lourdes, such as child-friendly guided tours, craft workshops and leisure activities. There are also holiday centres for children and family-friendly pilgrimage programmes. It is important to check the activities available for children before planning your trip to ensure that there are age-appropriate options.

30. Are there services for people with reduced mobility at Notre Dame de Lourdes?

There are services for people with reduced mobility at Our Lady of Lourdes, such as reserved parking spaces, lifts and ramps. There are also wheelchairs and walking aids available for pilgrims with reduced mobility. It is important to check the services available for people with reduced mobility before planning your trip to ensure that there are options to suit your needs.