There's one phrase Carnival US Travel hears a lot whenever clients inquire about European pilgrimage tours: “Does this tour include a visit to Lourdes?”
Interestingly, even those who have never been to France, never gone on a European pilgrimage, or even never really learned much about Lourdes, still long to visit this place at least once.
And perhaps only when one actually sets foot in Lourdes will one understand why this place is so special.
Lourdes isn't a big city: it's not glamorous, nor does it have the "tourist attraction" feel of many other famous places in Europe. But every year, millions of people from all over the world still flock here – to pray, to find peace, or simply to experience the very special atmosphere of France's most famous Marian shrine.
And if you have the chance to spend a full day in Lourdes, you'll understand why it's always one of the most anticipated stops on many European pilgrimages.
Mornings in Lourdes start very early.
The atmosphere in Lourdes in the early morning is very different.
The small town nestled at the foot of the Pyrenees is usually quite quiet as pilgrims begin their journey toward the sanctuary. The morning light gently illuminates the basilicas, the bells chime in the cool air, and the stream of people from many different countries gradually makes their way to the square, creating a feeling that is both sacred and peaceful.
One of the things many visitors enjoy most about Lourdes is being able to start their day with an international Mass at the Basilica of St. Pius X.
This is one of the largest basilicas in Lourdes, where international Masses are often held, attended by thousands of faithful from all over the world. What is remarkable is that despite different languages, skin colors, and origins, everyone prays together in a very unified atmosphere.
For many people, that moment alone is enough to make the trip memorable.
Massabielle Cave – the heart of Lourdes
After Mass, most pilgrims usually spend time at the Massabielle Grotto – the grotto where the Virgin Mary appeared to Saint Bernadette in 1858.
This is also the place that evokes the most emotion in many people when they visit Lourdes.
The area around the grotto is usually not too noisy. People move slowly, many silently recite rosaries, some sit for a long time just to pray or simply be present.
One of the most special experiences in Lourdes is touching the stone slab in the cave – the site associated with the apparitions of the Virgin Mary. For many pilgrims, this is a moment that is difficult to describe in words.
Next to the grotto is the Lourdes holy water collection area – where crowds of people always line up from morning till night. Some bring small bottles, others bring large containers to take water home for their families and loved ones.
But perhaps the most special thing about Lourdes is not the "come to see" aspect, but rather the strange sense of peace it brings to those who are present there.
A very different Lourdes in the afternoon.
Afternoons in Lourdes are usually calmer and slower-paced.
After morning prayers, many visitors enjoy spending time exploring the basilicas within the sanctuary or walking the Stations of the Cross on the hillside near the sanctuary.
The Stations of the Cross in Lourdes is quite long and has many gentle slopes, but it offers a very tranquil feeling. Amidst the greenery and the cool air of southern France, many say it's one of the places that helps them truly "slow down" after so many days of hurried living.
Another destination that is often visited by tourists is the St. Bernadette Museum – which recounts the life of the shepherdess who witnessed the apparitions of the Virgin Mary at Lourdes.
Interestingly, Bernadette never tried to prove what she considered "great." And perhaps it is this very simplicity that has made the story at Lourdes resonate with so many people for over a century.
Evening – the most beautiful time in Lourdes
If you were to ask what the most beautiful time of day is in Lourdes, many people would answer, "It's the evening."“
Especially when the candlelight procession begins.
As dusk fell, crowds from all directions gradually gathered in Esplanade Square. Each person held a small candle, the golden light stretching across the night as the slow chanting of the Ave Maria echoed in many different languages.
The atmosphere at that time was difficult to describe precisely. It wasn't overly noisy, nor did it feel like a major event. But it moved many people in their own unique way.
There are people who go to Lourdes many times just to be able to participate in that candlelight procession one more time.
And perhaps it is this very moment that makes Lourdes a place that so many pilgrims always wish to return to in their lifetime.
Lourdes is more than just a destination.
What makes Lourdes so special is this:
This place doesn't overwhelm people with its architecture or grandeur.
Lourdes connects with people through their feelings.
A small city.
A simple cave.
The prayers were very quiet.
And millions of people flock here simply because they want to feel a little more at peace.
Perhaps that is why, in many European pilgrimages, Lourdes is almost always the first place visitors ask about.
For many, a European pilgrimage wouldn't be truly complete without standing in Lourdes Square at night, holding a small candle and listening to Ave Maria echoing through the night in southern France.