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

Discover the Basílica Santuari de la Mare de Déu de Núria, a historic mountain sanctuary offering spiritual solace and breathtaking Pyrenean views.

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Nestled in the Catalan Pyrenees, the Basílica Santuari de la Mare de Déu de Núria is a stunning basilica dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Reaching this sacred site is an adventure in itself, as it's only accessible by rack railway, adding to its secluded and spiritual atmosphere. The basilica offers breathtaking views, rich history, and a tranquil escape.

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

  • Purchase rack railway tickets online in advance to ensure availability, especially during peak season.
  • Check the weather forecast and dress in layers, as mountain temperatures can change rapidly.
  • Explore the hiking trails around the basilica for stunning views of the Pyrenees.
  • Visit during the week to avoid the largest crowds.
  • Take time to explore the history and legends associated with the Virgin of Núria.
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Getting There

  • Rack Railway

    The Basílica Santuari de la Mare de Déu de Núria is only accessible by the Vall de Núria Rack Railway. To reach the basilica, take the rack railway from either Ribes de Freser or Queralbs. The train journey offers scenic views of the Vall de Núria. From Barcelona, you can take the R3 Rodalies train to Ribes de Freser. A combined train and rack railway ticket (TreNatura) is available. Alternatively, you can drive to Ribes de Freser or Queralbs and park at the free parking areas near the rack railway stations. Rack railway ticket prices vary depending on the season and departure station. As of July 2025, a round trip ticket from Ribes de Freser to Núria costs €33 for adults and €21.50 for children (4-13 years). A one-way ticket costs €23 for adults and €15 for children. From Queralbs, a round trip ticket costs €30 for adults and €19.50 for children, while a one-way ticket costs €21 for adults and €13.50 for children. Children under 4 travel for free. The rack railway ticket includes access to the Coma del Clot cable car, exhibitions, the visitor center, and the Núria Basilica.

  • Walking

    For a more adventurous approach, you can hike to Núria from Queralbs along the 'Camí Vell' (Old Road). This popular mountain hike is well-marked and offers stunning views. The hike is steep and takes approximately 2-3 hours to ascend. Start at the Queralbs Rack Railway station or the Plaça del Raig in Queralbs. Follow the signs for Núria. Note that there are no costs associated with hiking to Núria, but you will need to factor in the cost of transportation to Queralbs. Parking is free at the rack railway station in Queralbs.

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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 Our Lady of Núria, is a renowned basilica in the picturesque Vall de Núria, located in the heart of the Catalan Pyrenees. Situated at almost 2,000 meters, it stands as one of the highest sanctuaries dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The location can only be accessed via the Vall de Núria Rack Railway. Legend says that Saint Gil, around 700 AD, arrived in the valley and sculpted the image of the Virgin, hiding it with a cross, bell, and pot, which became symbols of Núria. In the 11th century, a hermit named Amadeu, prompted by angelic visions, constructed a chapel to honor the Virgin Mary but couldn't locate St. Gil's hidden treasures. Shepherds later discovered the Virgin's image and the artifacts following the lead of a red-haired bull. The basilica stands on the very site of this discovery. The sanctuary has evolved over the centuries from a mountain parish to a hospital, hostel, and pilgrimage site. The current neo-Romanesque church was consecrated in 1911. In 2015, the sanctuary was granted the title of basilica. Today, the basilica continues to be a place of pilgrimage and spiritual retreat. Visitors can attend mass, explore the basilica's art and religious symbols, and soak in the serene mountain atmosphere. The Virgin Mary of Núria is the patron saint of the Diocese of Urgell and is invoked for fertility blessings. The Catalan girls' name Núria is derived from this shrine. Visitors can explore the surrounding area, including the Sant Gil chapel and spring. The site also offers hiking trails and winter activities.

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