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Basílica Santuari de la Mare de Déu de Núria: A Mountain Sanctuary

Discover the spiritual haven of Basílica Santuari de la Mare de Déu de Núria in the Pyrenees, accessible by rack railway, offering history and natural beauty.

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Nestled in the heart of the Catalan Pyrenees, the Basílica Santuari de la Mare de Déu de Núria is a stunning basilica and sanctuary dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Accessible only by rack railway or on foot, this remote location offers a unique blend of spiritual refuge and natural beauty, drawing pilgrims and tourists alike.

A brief summary to Basílica Santuari de la Mare de Déu de Núria

  • Monday 9 am-7 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-7 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-7 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-7 pm
  • Friday 9 am-7 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-7 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-7 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during weekdays to avoid crowds, especially during peak pilgrimage times.
  • Dress in layers, as the temperature in the mountains can vary significantly throughout the day.
  • Take the rack railway from Ribes de Freser for a picturesque journey to the basilica.
  • Explore the surrounding hiking trails for breathtaking views and a chance to connect with nature.
  • Check the schedule for religious services if you wish to experience the spiritual ambiance of the basilica.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    To reach the Basílica Santuari de la Mare de Déu de Núria, begin by taking a train from Barcelona to Ribes de Freser. From Plaça de Catalunya or Estació de Sants, take the Renfe train to Ribes de Freser. Upon arriving in Ribes de Freser, transfer to the Cremallera de Núria rack railway. This railway is the only access to the Núria Valley. The rack railway ascends through the Pyrenees, offering scenic views. The journey takes approximately 40 minutes. A return ticket for adults (14-64 years) from Ribes de Freser to Núria costs €33.00. For children (4-13 years), the return ticket is €21.50. Seniors (65+ years) can purchase a return ticket for €28.00. Alternatively, you can take the train to Queralbs and board the rack railway from there. A return ticket from Queralbs to Núria costs €30.00 for adults, €19.50 for children, and €24.50 for seniors. A one-way ticket from Ribes to Queralbs costs €6 for adults and €4 for children. The urban ticket can be purchased at the ticket offices of the Cremallera train stations.

  • Driving

    To reach the Basílica Santuari de la Mare de Déu de Núria by car, drive from Barcelona along the C-17 highway towards Ribes de Freser. Continue to the village of Queralbs, the last accessible point by car. Parking is available in Queralbs. The Parking Municipal de Queralbs is a convenient and secure option. Parking is also available near the train station, though space is limited. Parking in the main street of Queralbs is subject to a fee of approximately €1.50. From Queralbs, board the Cremallera de Núria rack railway to reach the basilica. A return ticket from Queralbs to Núria costs €30.00 for adults, €19.50 for children, and €24.50 for seniors. The rack railway journey takes approximately 40 minutes.

  • Walking

    For a more adventurous approach to the Basílica Santuari de la Mare de Déu de Núria, consider hiking from Queralbs. The walk is considered a classic hike in the Catalan Pyrenees. The trail from Queralbs to Núria gains approximately 1,000 meters in elevation. The hike takes a few hours uphill. Follow the footpath that runs parallel to the rack railway. Upon arriving in Núria, the basilica is a short walk from the train station. No costs are associated with walking, but be prepared for a strenuous hike.

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Discover more about Basílica Santuari de la Mare de Déu de Núria

The Basílica Santuari de la Mare de Déu de Núria, or the Sanctuary Basilica of the Virgin Mary of Núria, is a renowned site in Queralbs and the Ripollès region. Situated at almost 2,000 meters, it stands as one of the highest sanctuaries dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The sanctuary's origins are steeped in legend, dating back to the 11th century when a hermit named Amadeu encouraged shepherds to build a chapel and search for a hidden carving of the Virgin Mary. The carving, along with a cross, bell, and pot, was found with the help of a bull. In the Middle Ages, Núria served as a mountain passage for shepherds, pilgrims, and merchants. The sanctuary was rebuilt in the 15th century after being damaged by an earthquake. In 2015, it was granted the title of basilica. The Virgin Mary of Núria is the patron saint of the Diocese of Urgell and is invoked for fertility. The basilica houses an 11th-century Romanesque image of the Virgin Mary. The bright polychrome statue, depicting the Virgin seated on a throne holding the child, dates back to the 12th or 13th centuries. Today, the Basílica Santuari de la Mare de Déu de Núria attracts visitors with its spiritual ambiance and stunning architecture. Pilgrims can participate in religious ceremonies, while tourists can explore the basilica's exquisite artwork and religious symbols. The surrounding valley offers hiking trails and outdoor activities, making it an ideal destination for both relaxation and adventure. The rack railway, operating since 1931, provides a scenic journey through the mountains.

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