Lourdes is known worldwide primarily as the site of the apparitions of Our Lady in 1858. Since then, it has become one of the most important pilgrimage centers, attracting over 3 million people from all over the world every year. However, Lourdes is not only a sanctuary – it is also a city rich in history, with an impressive architectural and cultural heritage. Situated at the foot of the Pyrenees, Lourdes has for centuries combined highland, French, and international traditions. Picturesque landscapes, a medieval castle towering over the city, atmospheric churches, and numerous museums make it a destination that delights both pilgrims and lovers of history and art.
Organized since 1984, European Heritage Days renew their promise every year: they uniquely open thousands of buildings and spaces, often hidden from view, to the public. A variety of attractions are offered, from guided tours to themed tours, including craft demonstrations, theater performances, concerts, and historical walks.
In its 42nd year, European Heritage Days highlights "architectural heritage" in all its richness and diversity.
This year's European Heritage Days celebration program is exceptionally rich, offering a glimpse into places that are often closed or inaccessible.
Discover the wide range of activities on offer in Lourdes during this special autumn weekend in September. Château Fort – Musée Pyrénéen: Museum of the Pyrenees, located in a medieval fortress towering over the city. Throughout the weekend, the extraordinary exhibition "Franz Schrader, la montagne sublimée" (The Mountain as Art) will be on display, dedicated to the artist, mountaineer, and geographer who passionately portrayed the beauty of the mountains. Special guided tours have also been prepared, ranging from archaeological secrets to educational activities and visits for children ("Au-delà des murs" – "Discovering what lies beyond the walls").
Tour de Garnavie: Only during European Heritage Days will it be possible to enter this historic site and listen to guides' stories about the ancient history of Lourdes.
Churches of Lourdes: The Église d’Anclades, Église du Sacré-Cœur, and Église de Saux will be open. Each has its own history, architecture, and significance for local residents. Rarely is there an opportunity to delve into the local religious heritage, other than the renowned Lourdes sanctuary.
Mayor's Office (Town Hall): Guided tours will be available to explore the site's secrets – and special tours tailored to children's imaginations have been prepared for the youngest visitors.
Sanctuary of Notre-Dame de Lourdes: The highlight of Sunday's program will be a concert of Mozart's "Requiem" in the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception – a unique encounter of spirituality and music that will surely be remembered by attendees for a long time.
Local associations and institutions have joined in organizing this year's celebrations. The program includes visits to open studios of artists such as Courbes et Couleurs, as well as exhibitions at C'PRIM – Centre Pyrénéen des Risques Majeurs, where visitors can learn more about the history and unique nature of life in the Pyrenees.
One of the highlights of the program will be unique guided tours, such as "Lourdes at the Time of the Apparitions – a city at the beginning of the 20th century," which will allow you to travel back in time and see Lourdes through the eyes of its inhabitants a hundred years ago.
European Heritage Days in Lourdes is not just a series of cultural events. It's also a time to meet local guides, artists, and residents who proudly share their history and traditions. This is a time when Lourdes reveals its lesser-known side – beyond its pilgrimage center, opening doors to hidden places full of stories.
Walking through the city's streets, you'll experience the harmony between spirituality and culture, discovering its extraordinary heritage amidst the picturesque Pyrenees, and experiencing the rich and diverse identity of Lourdes. Because Lourdes is not only a place of pilgrimage, but also a city steeped in history and culture in the heart of the Pyrenees.
Most events during European Heritage Days are free or available for a nominal fee. Telephone reservations are required for some guided tours and thematic visits (e.g., town hall tours, some castle visits). Call: +33 (0)5 62 42 37 37.
Details and online registration are also available at: www.chateaufort-lourdes.fr.
To fully enjoy the program and the charms of Lourdes, it's worth planning your stay in advance. Here are some tips:
The best way to get to Lourdes is:
By plane – the nearest airport is Tarbes-Lourdes-Pyrénées (LDE), located approximately 15 km from the city. It offers connections to Paris and other European cities. From the airport, you can take a bus or taxi.
By train – Lourdes has a train station with direct TGV connections from Paris (approx. 5 hours), Toulouse, and Bordeaux.
By car – the city is located on the A64 motorway (Tarbes-Ouest exit), a drive from Toulouse takes approximately 2 hours and from Bordeaux 3 hours.
And if you take up our invitation and head to Lourdes this weekend, remember to visit all the places for which Lourdes is famous and which make it one of the most visited pilgrimage destinations in the world:
The Sanctuary of Notre-Dame de Lourdes – the heart of the city, a must-see for pilgrims and tourists alike.
The Grotto of Massabielle – the site of the apparitions, the symbol of Lourdes.
Balneotherapy and Pyrenean thermal baths – perfect for a moment of relaxation after a busy day of sightseeing.
Excursions to the Pyrenees – Lourdes is an excellent base for mountain excursions. Worth a visit are Gavarnie (UNESCO site), the Pic du Midi, and picturesque mountain villages.
The Lourdes Tourist Information Office will provide all necessary information. It is the best place to obtain maps, brochures, and up-to-date information on the event program.
Office de Tourisme de Lourdes
Place du Champ Commun, 65100 Lourdes
Tel. +33 (0)5 62 42 77 40
www.lourdes-infotourisme.com
