World Wings: Lourdes

Lourdes France

Lourdes is a large town in the French Pyrenees. It is a major global center for Marian pilgrimage, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. Catholics believe that the Virgin Mary, the Mother of God, appeared 18 times at the Grotto to a young girl named St. Bernadette Soubirous. Originally a quiet market town on the route to the Pyrenees’ spas, Lourdes has grown into the world’s largest Marian pilgrimage site. The town is divided into two main areas: the international section by the river, which includes the spiritual area with the Grotto and churches—known as the Domaine or the Sanctuaries—and the French section, centered around the Marketplace and the Town Hall (Hotel de Ville). Lourdes is a pedestrian-friendly city, with several streets reserved for pedestrians, making it very easy to get around the town center. It’s definitely worth walking and exploring. Be sure not to miss the nightly candlelight procession in front of the Basilica and around the main square, featuring singing, prayers, and the rosary recited in many languages.

Recommended airport

Lourdes (LDE)

Nearby destinations