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!
For centuries, the faithful have been hanging plaques for themselves and their loved ones on the façade of the Chapel of Our Lady in Altötting. Over the centuries, they have become one of the most recognizable and characteristic elements of this place, creating a chronological record of the history of prayers, hopes and fulfilled desires.
Read more
According to a well-known Polish saying, love begins nowhere else but on a plate. "The way to a man's heart is through his stomach," say the Poles, and we fully agree with this statement! Today we present the must-haves on the menus of our cities and regions. Flagship dishes that you should try when visiting one of the Shrines of Europe cities. Delicacies that have their fans far beyond the borders of our countries. Enjoy your meal!
Read more
When in Lourdes, visit "Little Lourdes" - a micro-town in the heart of the city, which, surrounded by greenery, allows you to take a breath and relax after intensive sightseeing. A visit to this charming miniature park is a unique history lesson for all pilgrims and tourists visiting Lourdes, regardless of age.
Read more
A real treat awaits all lovers of snow, speed and thrills in the town of Mariazell! The "FIL Natural Track World Cup" will soon be held on natural ice tracks from 24 to 26 January 2025 in this picturesque Alpine town.
Read more
Incense production in Altötting is a combination of centuries of tradition and passion, thanks to which the craftsmanship process makes each product unique in terms of scent and spiritual meaning. Its scent has something mystical about it, but often it helps us to simply relax. Learn about the history of incense from Altötting.
Read more
Einsiedeln in winter turns into a real paradise for winter sports enthusiasts. Ski slopes, Nordic walking, ice skating, or maybe ski jumping? We invite you to discover all the attractions that this charming town has to offer winter sports enthusiasts.
Read more
Take a panoramic tour through the Shrines of Europe cities
Where do you want
to explore?