Rosary Basilica, Lourdes
Facts and practical information
Nestled in the serene town of Lourdes, France, the Rosary Basilica stands as a beacon of spiritual solace and architectural splendor. This minor basilica, an integral part of the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes, is known for its religious significance and stunning design.
Inaugurated in 1901, the Rosary Basilica is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and is renowned for its breathtaking mosaics that depict the 15 mysteries of the rosary. These mysteries, which are central to the Catholic faith, are beautifully illustrated across the basilica's interior, inviting visitors to reflect on the life of Jesus Christ and the Virgin Mary.
The basilica, with its Byzantine-influenced architecture, features a stunning facade adorned with three arches and two domed towers that capture the essence of spiritual grandeur. Inside, the vast, opulent nave can accommodate thousands of worshippers, making it a hub for pilgrims from around the world, especially during the Marian processions.
Visitors to the Rosary Basilica will find themselves immersed in an atmosphere of reverence and peace. The basilica's grotto marks the spot where the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared to Saint Bernadette Soubirous in 1858, an event that catapulted Lourdes into the spotlight as a site of Marian apparitions and miraculous healings.
Occitanie