In 1858 Bernadette Soubirous saw 18 apparitions of Our Lady in Lourdes, and it is here that an estimated 5 million people make pilgrimages and visit each year.
The town is chocka with religious souvenir shops and cafes, so it is worth noting that the most expensive are (naturally) closest to the Basilica and shrine, and also nearest Le Cachot which is the room where young Bernadette and her family were forced to live at one time. There is a very interesting statue factory in the town, and many pleasant little cafes with outdoor seating - most shopkeepers speak English, Spanish, Italian and German to some degree, but most are happy to keep quiet and let you practice your French! There are also many hotels and even a McDonalds. (which I thought was at odds with the town). There is a land train that tootles around the town, its passengers singing and waving to pedestrians as they go by. Lourdes is a happy place that seems to bring out the best in human nature!
I can't begin to describe the scale of the underground Basilica - you need to experience an international mass for yourself - it truly is amazing. The sound system within the Domain is excellent if you can't get down there - though they say the basilica can easily house 35,000 people. In the evenings there is a torchlight procession, people (individuals and groups) parade through the Domain chanting, praying and singing. Nurses from the local hospital bring patients in big blue bath chairs and there are regular services for Blessings of the Sick. Inside the basilica there are screens hanging from the ceiling and cameras moving around so you can see everything that is going on even if you are stuck at the back - you might even see yourself, so don't forget to smile!
Reading about Lourdes and seeing photos is but a fraction of a glimpse of the place - I urge everyone to go there themselves at least once in their lifetime - you won't be sorry you went.
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