The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes
The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes is one of the most visited pilgrimage destinations in the world, welcoming millions of faithful each year. This guide covers the key sites within the sanctuary and practical information for those planning a visit.
The Grotto of Massabielle
The Grotto is the heart of Lourdes — the exact place where the Blessed Virgin Mary appeared to Bernadette Soubirous eighteen times in 1858. A statue of Our Lady stands in the niche where Bernadette saw the apparition. Below, the miraculous spring flows behind a glass panel, and rows of candles burn continuously, lit by pilgrims from around the world.
The Grotto is accessible at all hours and is the focal point of daily Rosary processions and private prayer. Mass is celebrated at the altar in front of the Grotto throughout the day.
The Basilicas
Basilica of the Immaculate Conception
The upper basilica, built directly above the Grotto, was the first church constructed at the site in response to Our Lady's request. Consecrated in 1876, it features neo-Gothic architecture with beautiful stained-glass windows depicting the apparitions and the life of the Blessed Virgin.
Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary
Built in the Romano-Byzantine style and consecrated in 1901, the Rosary Basilica sits at the base of the upper basilica. Its fifteen chapels contain mosaic depictions of the mysteries of the Rosary. The large esplanade in front can accommodate outdoor Masses and processions.
Basilica of Saint Pius X
This underground basilica, consecrated in 1958 for the centenary of the apparitions, is one of the largest churches in the world. Shaped like an inverted ship's hull, it can accommodate up to 25,000 people and is used for international Masses and major celebrations.
The Baths
The baths at Lourdes allow pilgrims to immerse themselves in the spring water in the spirit of prayer and penance, as Our Lady instructed Bernadette. The experience is one of the most distinctive aspects of a Lourdes pilgrimage.
Volunteers assist pilgrims through the process with great care and reverence. The immersion is brief — a moment of prayer and trust in God's grace. The baths are open to all pilgrims, including those with disabilities or serious illness, and there is no charge.
Note that the sanctuary periodically updates its procedures for the baths. Pilgrims are encouraged to check the official sanctuary website for current schedules and guidelines before their visit.
Practical Information for Pilgrims
Getting There
Lourdes is served by the Tarbes-Lourdes-Pyrénées Airport (LDE) and the Lourdes train station, with direct connections from Paris, Toulouse, and other major French cities. The sanctuary is within walking distance of the town center.
When to Visit
The pilgrimage season runs from April through October, with the largest gatherings around the Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes (February 11), the anniversary dates of the apparitions, and the Feast of the Assumption (August 15). The sanctuary is open year-round, though some services are reduced during winter.
Accessibility
The sanctuary is designed to accommodate pilgrims with disabilities and serious illness. Wheelchair access is available throughout the grounds, and trained volunteers (brancardiers) assist those who need help.
Plan Your Pilgrimage
Use our interactive pilgrimage planner to organize your visit to Lourdes — including travel, accommodations, and a day-by-day itinerary of sanctuary events.
Open Pilgrimage Planner