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Day 1: Lourdes
Why not follow millions of visitors from all over the world and explore Lourdes? There is no need to be a practising catholic, or even a Christian - people come to see the Grotto, to touch the rocks, gather water from the springs, light a candle, and walk carrying a flaming torch. These rituals are as much pagan, superstitious or magic as they are religious. A unique personal experience that touches everyone.
The Sanctuary in Lourdes
The sanctuary is the area around the grotto where Bernadette saw apparitions of the Virgin Mary. They are on the river bank and it is the area where people come to pray, there are three basilicas.
The Grotto, this is the beating heart of Lourdes. The grotto was the scene of 18 visions. There is a statue of Mary in the niche where the Virgin appeared. The slender, white Basilica of the Immaculate Conception is perched above the rocks of the grotto. Below it is the Basilica of the Rosary, which is decorated with superb Venetian mosaics by G.D. Facchina who also decorated the Opéra Garnier in Paris. The Basilica of Pius X is a crypt constructed beneath the esplanade. It is thought to be one of the largest shrines in the world and has facilities for 20,000 pilgrims.
The Pic du Jer Finicular Railway
The Pic du Ger towers over Lourdes, it is recognisable by its enormous cross which is illuminated an night. A century old funicular railway takes youp to the summit at 1000m of altitude in just a few minutes, a voyage full of history. Once at the top an easy trail takes you to a look-out point from where there is a 360 degree panorama, over Lourdes, Tarbes, Pau the Argeles-Gazost valley and the Pyrenean peaks.
Situated at the entry to Lourdes (59, av. Francis-Lagardère) • www.lourdes-infotourisme.com
The Lourdes castle and its Pyrenean museum
The castle is perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the town, it is a classified historical monument. Within its wall is a museum of the Pyrenees. So do hestitae to making an assault on this impressive fortress, climb the 104 steps which lead to the top of the dungeon tower, at the top the view is superb. You can also discover the famous legend of Charlemagne who is celebrated on the crest of Lourdes.
Worth the detour
The Pyrenees Animal Park
Located in Argelès-Gazost between Cauterets and Lourdes. It offers a superb way of looking at the natural world of the Pyrenees. Set across a green and rocky hilside you can share the intimate life of the animals, from the great carnivores - bears, wolves and lynx to the smaller ones - martins, otters and stoats, not to mention the mountain species - vultures, deer and Isard.
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