Shrines of Europe

Via Lauretana – on the way to Loreto

Winter still blankets the world in white, but it’s the perfect time to start planning spring journeys that inspire and transform. Loreto, one of Europe’s most important Marian sanctuaries, awaits all those seeking spiritual experiences, history, and beauty. The Via Lauretana – an ancient route connecting Assisi to Loreto – leads straight to this exceptional destination, offering a journey through picturesque landscapes, historic sites, and an atmosphere that lingers long after the walk ends.

Winter Magic of the Shrines of Europe – a festive journey through our cities

The holiday season is slowly fading into memory, but the magic of winter is still with us. We invite you to explore a photo gallery showcasing the cities of the Shrines of Europe network in their Christmas and New Year’s attire.

Busy in promoting – Shrines of Europe at FITUR 2026 in Madrid

The Shrines of Europe network is being actively promoted at FITUR 2026 in Madrid, one of the most important international tourism fairs in the world. This is a unique opportunity to present the spiritual, cultural and historical heritage of Europe’s sanctuary cities to a wide audience of professionals and visitors from around the globe.

XIII International Workshops on Religious Tourism (IWRT 2026)

The International Workshops on Religious Tourism (IWRT) are one of the world’s leading events dedicated to religious and spiritual tourism. This year’s edition will take place on February 19–20 in Fátima and on February 23 in Guarda, Portugal. We will also be there, actively participating in industry meetings and international exchanges of experience.

Lichterzauber on the Bürgeralpe – a winter attraction in Mariazell

A winter stay in Mariazell can be enhanced this season with a special attraction – Lichterzauber on the Mariazeller Bürgeralpe, a series of evening light installations set in a particularly scenic mountain landscape. For those who have not yet visited Mariazell in winter, this is the last opportunity to plan such a trip.

Christmas wishes

As the Shrines of Europe Association, we always come together in this special time of the year. We warmly invite you to watch and share Christmas wishes from all the cities of the Shrines of Europe, each bringing its unique voice and local tradition into this common message of hope. May this festive season bring peace, hope, and joy to our communities, our pilgrims, and all who seek light on their journey.

A path of culture and spirituality

Experience Europe in the footsteps of the pilgrims!

Via Lauretana – on the way to Loreto

Winter Magic of the Shrines of Europe – a festive journey through our cities

Busy in promoting – Shrines of Europe at FITUR 2026 in Madrid

XIII International Workshops on Religious Tourism (IWRT 2026)

Lichterzauber on the Bürgeralpe – a winter attraction in Mariazell

Christmas wishes

Panoramic tour

Częstochowa

The spiritual capital of Poland

Altötting

The Heart of Bavaria

Einsiedeln

Culture, tradition, sports, nature

Fátima

City of Peace

Loreto

A shrine created a town

Lourdes

In the footsteps of Bernadette

Mariazell

Beyond faith