Lourdes is considered a special place to visit because it is believed to bring blessings to the pilgrims. Lourdes is in France and is near the Pyrenees Mountains. a pilgrim may visit to clean away their sins and/or to be cured of illness. The holy water from the Spring in the grotto is said to heal the sick. Millions of visitors go to Lourdes each year in hope to use the opportunity to focus closely on their faith. The pilgrims feel secure in the knowledge that God will look after them, forgive them for their sins and even cure them of their illnesses. 

What do you need to know about Lourdes?

1. In 1858 the Holy Mother Mary appeared 18 times to Bernadette Soubirous, in the Grotto of Masabielle.
2. It is believed that spring water from the grotto can heal people if they are sick.
3. The most visited pilgrimage shrine in the Christian world
4. The pilgrimage season at Lourdes lasts from April through October, with the main day being August 15, the Marian Feast of Assumption.