Basilica of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception – Lourdes : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

Welcome to the charming, historical Basilica of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception in Lourdes, France. This majestic structure, which stands 156 feet tall, has been a focal point of the town since the late 19th century and is a popular tourist attraction and spiritual pilgrimage for Catholics and other visitors alike. This guide will introduce you to the Basilica, tell you about some of the interesting facts and anecdotes associated with it, and provide some information for planning a visit. So if you are interested in visiting this magnificent religious site, read on and learn more about the Basilica of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception in Lourdes.

Interesting Facts About Basilica of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception – Lourdes

1. The Basilica of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception in Lourdes was the first of its kind to be built in France.

2. The design of the Basilica is inspired by Gothic and Romanesque styles.

3. The construction of the Basilica began in 1879 and was completed in 1884.

4. The Basilica has two towers that reach just over 230 feet.

5. The Basilica contains 23 chapels within its walls, each dedicated to either one of the different appearances of the Virgin Mary in Lourdes.

6. During World War II, the Basilica was used as a prison for German officers.

7. The Basilica was declared a minor basilica by Pope Leo XIII in 1897.

8. Every year, millions of pilgrims from all over the world visit the Basilica to pray and give thanks.

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History & Information About Basilica of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception – Lourdes

The Basilica of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception in Lourdes, France is a Roman Catholic basilica dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The basilica was built in 1871 to replace an earlier structure dating from 1858, and was designed by architect Paul Abadie, who also designed the Sacré-Cœur in Paris. The basilica was declared a national monument in 1924.

The basilica is the largest of several buildings that have been built on the site where Blessed Bernadette Soubirous had her visions of the Virgin Mary in February 1858. The grotto and surrounding area, along with the Chapel of the Apparitions, are now contained within the grounds of the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes.

Within the basilica is a statue of the Virgin Mary sculpted by the 19th-century French sculptor Joseph Niepce, which was commissioned by the bishop of Tarbes. The statue depicts the Virgin Mary in the apparition as described by Bernadette. Inside the basilica is a large crypt containing tombs of the numerous bishops who have visited the sanctuary over the years, and a number of paintings, sculptures, and other works of art related to the Virgin Mary and Bernadette.

The Basilica is open to the public daily from 8am – 7pm, and has a significant amount of visitors each year. Mass and other religious services are held in the basilica and on its grounds, and is site of pilgrimage for many Catholics and other Christians from all over the world.

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Travel Guide For Visiting Basilica of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception – Lourdes

Planning a trip to The Basilica of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception in Lourdes, France? Here’s a travel guide to help you make the most of your visit!

Where is it?

The Basilica of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception is located in the commune of Lourdes in the Hautes-Pyrénées department, in southern France. It is located in the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes, the largest Catholic pilgrimage site in the world.

When to Visit

The best time to visit the basilica of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception is in the summer months between May and September. During this time, you’ll be able to take in the beautiful sights of the Sanctuary and attend religious services.

Getting There

The city of Lourdes is served by Tarbes-Lourdes-Pyrénées International Airport, which offers connections to cities across France, Spain and the UK. Once you have arrived in Lourdes, you can easily reach the Basilica on foot.

Accommodation

Lourdes offers a variety of accommodation to suit all budgets. There is a selection of hotels, self-catering apartments, guesthouses and hostels to choose from, most of which are within walking distance of the Basilica.

Services

The basilica is open to visitors every day and offers mass, confessions, guided tours, and other services throughout the year.

Tip

When visiting the Basilica of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, make sure to dress modestly and don’t forget your camera! Some of the most beautiful scenes can be found at the Sanctuary, and photos always make for great memories.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Basilica of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception – Lourdes

Q: Where is the Basilica located?

A: The Basilica of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception is located in Lourdes, France.

Q: How old is the Basilica?

A: The Basilica of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception was built in 1872.

Q: Who is the patron saint of the Basilica?

A: The patron saint of the Basilica of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception is the Virgin Mary.

Q: How many people can the Basilica accommodate?

A: The Basilica can accommodate up to 20,000 people.

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