The fifteenth Marian apparition at Lourdes: a moment of silent graceOn 4 March 1858, Bernadette Soubirous experienced her fifteenth Marian apparition at the grotto of Massabielle in Lourdes. This encounter, although discreet, marked a continuity in the message of the Virgin Mary, inviting people to prayer and devotion. At a time when more and more of the curious and the faithful are interested in the extraordinary events taking place at Lourdes, this apparition is part of a moment of grace and recollection. Read more...

The sixteenth Marian apparition at Lourdes: a moment of spiritual revelationOn 25 March 1858, the feast of the Annunciation, the sixteenth Marian apparition at Lourdes marked a decisive turning point in the encounters between Bernadette Soubirous and the mysterious Lady she saw in the grotto of Massabielle. This apparition was of particular importance, as it was during this encounter that the Virgin revealed her identity to the young visionary. Read more...

The 17th Marian apparition at Lourdes: a call to prayer and devotionOn 7 July 1858, the Virgin Mary appeared for the 17th time to Bernadette Soubirous, marking one of the final stages in a series of extraordinary events. This apparition, which is less well known than the others, is nevertheless of particular significance, marking a spiritual turning point in the messages transmitted to the young visionary. Read more...

The 18th and last Marian apparition at Lourdes: a message of peace and faithOn 16 July 1858, the Grotto of Massabielle in Lourdes was the scene of the 18th and last apparition of the Virgin Mary to Bernadette Soubirous. This apparition marked the conclusion of a series of miraculous events that have profoundly transformed the town of Lourdes into a world-renowned place of pilgrimage. We take a look back at this ultimate moment and the events surrounding it. Read more...

Lourdes before the apparitions: a rural village between history and traditionsBefore becoming a world-famous place of pilgrimage, Lourdes was just a small, peaceful village tucked away in the French Pyrenees. Situated in the Bigorre region, this rural market town had a rich history, but little of note compared with other major towns in the area. Lourdes was primarily an agricultural centre, with families making a modest living from the land, livestock farming and local trade. Read more...