Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes

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OS grid reference
Location	Lourdes, France
Address
Country
Language(s)
Denomination	Roman Catholic Church
Previous denomination
Sui iuris church

The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes (French: Sanctuaire de Notre-Dame de Lourdes ) is a major Roman Catholic pilgrimage and worship site located in Lourdes, France. The sanctuary is renowned for the Marian apparitions reported by Saint Bernadette Soubirous in 1858. It is one of the most visited pilgrimage sites in the world, attracting millions of pilgrims and visitors each year.

History

The history of the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes dates back to 1858 when a young peasant girl, Bernadette Soubirous, reported a series of visions of the Blessed Virgin Mary in the Grotto of Massabielle. These apparitions were later recognized by the Catholic Church, and the site quickly became a place of pilgrimage.

Components of the Sanctuary

The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes comprises several key components:

• Basilica of the Immaculate Conception: Also known as the Upper Basilica, it was consecrated in 1876 and is built above the Grotto of Massabielle.
• Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary: Consecrated in 1901, this basilica is known for its stunning mosaics depicting the Mysteries of the Rosary.
• Basilica of St. Pius X: Also known as the Underground Basilica, it was consecrated in 1958 and can accommodate up to 25,000 people.
• Grotto of Massabielle: The site of the apparitions, where pilgrims often gather to pray and light candles.
• Lourdes Water: The spring water from the grotto is believed to have healing properties, and many pilgrims come to bathe in or drink the water.

Pilgrimage

The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes is a major destination for pilgrimage within the Roman Catholic Church. Pilgrims come to seek spiritual solace, healing, and to participate in various religious ceremonies. The Torchlight Marian Procession and the Blessing of the Sick are among the most significant events held at the sanctuary.

Significance

The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes holds immense significance for Catholics worldwide. It is a symbol of faith, hope, and the miraculous. The site has been associated with numerous miracles and healings, many of which have been documented and recognized by the Lourdes Medical Bureau.

See also

• Marian apparition
• Bernadette Soubirous
• Roman Catholic Marian churches
• Pilgrimage
• Lourdes