The working group “Shrines of Europe“ was founded in 1996 and is uniting Europe ́s principle Marian pilgrimage sites: Altötting, Czestochowa, Lourdes, Loreto and Fátima. A few years later the Austrian pilgrimage center Mariazell joined the group. The youngest member of the association is Einsiedeln, the most important place of pilgrimage in Veneration of the Virgin Mary in Switzerland (2017). The importance of these great Marian Shrines was emphasized by the visits of the last European Popes John Paul II and Pope Benedict XVI. Being great devotees of Mary they each visited these shrines during their time in office. All these places have one thing in common: they provide spiritual consolation and new strength for living.
On this website you will find information about each of the Shrines of Europe, the important contact details and suggestions for round trips combining the most important places for pilgrims in veneration of the Virgin Mary in Europe.
Experience Europe in the footsteps of the pilgrims!
Did you know that sweet gingerbread is a popular souvenir from a trip to Einsiedeln? Its tradition dates back to the 14th century and is deeply rooted in the history of pilgrimages to this unique town, which is home to a Marian shrine known in Europe. Despite the passage of hundreds of years, pilgrims and tourists still eagerly buy gingerbread from Einsiedeln to give their loved ones these exceptionally delicious spicy baked goods.
Read more
Altötting will soon host the traditional Monastery Market. For the twentieth time, numerous monastic communities, monasteries and abbeys from Germany and abroad will present their traditional products and products from the monastery workshops, pantries, vineyards and breweries on the main town square, Kapellplatz, next to the Chapel of Grace. Of course, Altötting will also have a Shrines of Europe stand!
Read more
Did you know that in Loreto, at the foot of the Basilica of Our Lady of Loreto, there is a Polish War Cemetery? It is one of four necropolises of Polish soldiers who died in Italy during World War II. Soldiers who died during the battles in the Marche region were buried in this Italian town. Their bravery is part of the history of the city and their memory is still being cherished.
Read more
High summer. And if it's summer, there are outdoor events. Summer festivals have become a must-see during every vacation. The emotions after the festival in Portugal have not yet subsided, and we are already inviting you to another unique event. The Frytka Off festival will take place on July 27 in Częstochowa.
Read more
The second edition of the Shrines of Europe festival, which took place from June 19 to 23 in Ourem in Portugal, is already behind us. These few days were a real celebration of music, singing and dancing and the traditions of the Shrines of Europe, as well as a time of many wonderful conversations and discussions. See our report from this unique event.
Read more
Feirourém is an outdoor event held every year in Ourem. What distinguishes it from other events of its type is the fact that it brings together top artists, the best craftsmen, restaurateurs and exhibitors from Portugal and other countries in one place. This year Shrines of Europe will have the opportunity to be part of this wonderful unique summer festival.
Read more
Take a panoramic tour through the Shrines of Europe cities
Where do you want
to explore?