Situated on top of the rock above the Grotto of Massabielle and behind the Basilica of the Rosary, the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception (Basilique de l'Immaculée Conception) in Lourdes was constructed between 1866 and 1872. Because of its location it is also known as the Upper Basilica.

What to See at Basilica of the Immaculate Conception

The facade of the basilica bears a circular panel with the image of Pope Pius X smiling and holding in his left hand the decree of November 13, 1907, by which the Mass of the Apparition of Our Lady of Lourdes was extended to the Universal Church.

The lower circular panel, above the entrance to the Crypt, represents Pope Pius IX who proclaimed the Dogma of the Immaculate Conception in 1854.

At the entrance on the right is a marble plaque containing the complete text of the judgement made by Mgr Laurence, recognising the Apparitions as authentic.

The sanctuary of the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception holds 500 worshippers. The altar is directly over the place of Apparition.

The stained glass windows recall the story of the Blessed Virgin from the beginning to the declaration of the Dogma of the Immaculate Conception, in 1854, by Pope Pius IX and of the Apparitions of Lourdes in 1858.

Every hour, the Basilica's bells play the "Ave Maria of Lourdes."

Quick Facts on Basilica of the Immaculate Conception

Site Information
Names:	Basilica of the Immaculate Conception · Basilique de l'Immaculée Conception · Upper Basilica
Country:	France
Categories:	basilicas; churches; shrines
Styles:	Gothic Revival style
Dates:	1866-72
Status:	active
Visitor and Contact Information
Coordinates:	43.097379° N, 0.058322° W
Address:	Lourdes, France
Lodging:	View hotels near Basilica of the Immaculate Conception

Note: This information was accurate when first published and we do our best to keep it updated, but details such as opening hours and prices can change without notice. To avoid disappointment, please check with the site directly before making a special trip.

References

1. Lourdes-france.org – official website
2. Religious Heritage of Lourdes - Lourdes Office de Tourisme
3. Notre-Dame de Lourdes – Catholic Encyclopedia
4. Lourdes Travel - TripAdvisor
5. Lourdes, France – Lonely Planet
6. A Visit to Lourdes – Spirituality.org
7. A Pilgrimage to Lourdes – Savvy Traveler. A non-religious account.

More Information

• Lourdes-france.org – official website
• Map of the Sanctuaries of Lourdes
• Apparitions of Mary
• Cures and Miracles
• Daily Timetable (PDF)
• Webcams
• Photos of Basilica of the Immaculate Conception - here on Sacred Destinations