Travel to Lourdes and there is a slim chance you will miss the Basilica of St. Pius X. Although this cathedral is impressively large, it’s also built entirely underground. Stand in awe of its gigantic nave and watch as it fills with tens of thousands of pilgrims thronging to the town on religious feast days.
Lourdes has been a popular pilgrimage destination since the mid-19th century, when a vision of the Virgin Mary appeared to a local peasant girl. Learn about the legendary waters here, which are said to have healing properties. Lourdes exploded in popularity after this discovery. Today it is one of the busiest Catholic pilgrimage sites in the world. The basilica was built in 1957 and consecrated a year later to accommodate the increased number of visitors to the town. It was particularly intended to be used for ceremonies on busy feast days.
Decide what you think of the controversial architecture. The main hall is supported by bold, angular concrete arches, which create an expansive, awe-inspiring nave. Some critics felt that it was not traditional enough, whereas others responded positively to its striking design.
Join pilgrims in exploring the hall during one of its quieter spells. At full capacity, the basilica can accommodate about 25,000 people, in a 600-foot (182-meter) long main hall. Wander around the edges of the hall to see paintings of various saints bringing some color to the room. Stained-glass windows line the walls of the room, as well as information about the depicted saints.
Join devotees and worshipers at international mass, which takes place every Wednesday and Sunday in the mornings, between April and October. Visit on February 11 each year to take part in a celebration that remembers the apparition of Mary.
Look for the Basilica of St. Pius X beneath grassy lawns near the Rosary Basilica, as part of the wider Sanctuary of Notre Dame de Lourdes. The church is about 15 minutes away from Lourdes’ train station on foot. Metered parking lots are available on nearby streets, as are numerous accommodations and restaurants.
