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!
Loreto is a town of extraordinary charm and importance, which for seven hundred years has attracted travelers and pilgrims from all over the world, who come here to pray in the famous Holy House. The city is a must-see for believers, for those interested in religious architecture, for lovers of the seaside climate and beautiful views.
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November has arrived. One of those less pleasant months of the year – the days are getting shorter, it is cold and dark. November days will certainly brighten up our evenings spent at home, under a blanket, with a cup of warm cocoa, brightened by the glow of candles. Exactly – candles. Where did the tradition of burning them actually come from? Have you ever wondered about it?
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Einsiedeln is known not only for its impressive Benedictine monastery, but also for its fascinating diorama, which attracts tourists and pilgrims who want to "dive" into the Christmas story, as well as the Mineral Museum with its extraordinary collection of over 1,000 exhibits from all over the world.
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Few other pilgrimage sites in the world can boast as rich a history as Mariazell. This small town in Austria is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Europe, attracting thousands of believers each year to pay homage to Our Lady of Mariazell, known as the Magna Mater Austriae.
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World Tourism Day, celebrated every year on 27 September, is an important holiday that celebrates the role of tourism in our lives, its impact on the economy, culture, sustainable development and international relations. This year's theme of the celebrations, "Tourism and Peace", fits perfectly with the mission of the Shrines of Europe Association.
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Summer is unfortunately over, it's time to flip our switches to autumn mode. So we want to show you that autumn is also a wonderful time of year to travel. Today we are taking you to Lourdes, which in the fall delights with peace and charm, which makes every visit unforgettable.
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Take a panoramic tour through the Shrines of Europe cities
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