Lourdes

In 1858 the Virgin Mary appeared 18 times to Bernadette Soubirous, the 14-year-old daughter of a poor family from Lourdes. The cave where the vision was received has become the worlds largest pilgrimage site. People come from all over the world to be healed by the water from the spring that miraculously began to flow during Bernadette's visions.

Bétharram

On the way to Lourdes we drove through Bétharram, a small village famous for its caves and sanctuary. The weather was not cooperating, so we were only able to grab a couple of pictures before we drove on

		The sanctuary has a Classical facade and a Baroque interior. The hill is covered with fourteen chapels, one for each of the Stations of the Cross.
		The river flows out of the mountains, through here, through Pau, joins the Adour, and thence into the Atlantic. Following local usage, it is called the Gave de Pau.

Lourdes

We found a parking spot next to a stadium and walked across a field to the pilgrimage center of Lourdes.

		The Church of the Rosary, built over the grotto, has numerous levels and chapels. Mass is said almost continuously in a dozen languages. The Grotto is the main destination for those seeking the blessing of the Virgin and the healing powers of the spring.
		We entered the crypt and joined our prayers with those of the other pilgrims. The crown is for Mary, as Queen of Heaven.
		A long line of wheel chairs passes slowly through the grotto. The pilgrims leave candles behind as votive offerings.
		Out in front are stores selling souvenirs, medallions, and holy water. Despite the regimentation and commercialization we saw that this is a place where the power of God reaches His people.

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