Lourdes is a beautiful town at the foot of the Pyrenees, and has been an important pilgrimage site for 150 years, since the Blessed Mother appeared to a 14 year old peasant girl, Bernadette Soubirous, in February, 1858. Pilgrims come to Lourdes from all over the world to worship and pray. The sick and the infirm bathe in the healing waters, fervently hoping for cures for their bodily afflictions. While there have been many documented “miracle” cures here, the Church is quick to point out that healing comes in many forms. For many, the renewal of faith, and the spiritual healings taking place here every day are no less miraculous. Click below for a 2 minute video of my incredible day and evening in Lourdes. Scroll down for photos.
View from my hotel window this morning.
Masses are celebrated everyday in 6 different languages.
Grotto where Blessed Mother appeared to Bernadette.
Water trickles continuously down the face of the rock and pilgrims wait in line for their chance to touch and to pray at this holy site.
Underground spring
Fall foliage on the river
Twilight view from top of Basilica
2008 celebrates 150 years since the Blessed Mother appeared to Bernadette.
The Grotto lit up at night…..breathtakingly beautiful. This has been a once in a lifetime experience.
Nativity crèche set up at the Grotto just this morning.
Enchanted Traveler 