Religious site
Grotto of Massabielle
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The Grotto of Massabielle is the heart of the Lourdes sanctuary. This natural cave, located along the Gave de Pau river, is where Bernadette Soubirous experienced 18 apparitions of the Virgin Mary. Today, pilgrims touch the rock, light candles, and drink from the spring that emerged during the visions. The grotto is open day and night, often filled with quiet prayer. A statue of Our Lady of Lourdes stands in a niche above the spot where Bernadette knelt.
Don't miss
- Touch the rock of the grotto where the apparitions occurred
- Drink or collect water from the spring
- Light a candle at the candle stands nearby
- Pray the Rosary at the grotto
- See the statue of Our Lady of Lourdes
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Grotto of Massabielle
You can usually visit on your own. A tour is worth it for transport, a guide, or combining nearby sights into one day.
Cheapest way inGuided Tour of Zonneberg Caves in Maastricht4.9★ · 48 travelers~1 hourFree cancellationFrom$14 per personSee dates →
Most bookedTour in the Sassi of Matera with Casa Grotta and Rock Church5★ · 309 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$14 per personSee dates →
Private & flexibleThe Story of Lourdes Walking Tour IN ENGLISH5★ · 32 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$255 per personSee dates →More attractions in Lourdes