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Basilica of St. Pius X: An Underground Marvel

Discover the Basilica of St. Pius X in Lourdes, an architectural marvel and spiritual haven accommodating thousands of pilgrims in its unique underground setting.

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The Basilica of St. Pius X, also known as the Underground Basilica, is a unique and massive church in Lourdes, France, designed to accommodate the large number of pilgrims visiting the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes. Consecrated in 1958, this modern architectural marvel lies mostly underground and can hold up to 25,000 worshippers.

A brief summary to Basilica of St. Pius X

Local tips

  • Visit during off-peak seasons to avoid crowds, but be prepared for colder temperatures.
  • Attend the candlelight processions at 9 p.m. for a spiritually uplifting experience.
  • Explore the entire church to appreciate the gemmail art and the banners displaying pictures of different saints.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you are near the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes, walk towards the main entrance at 1 Rue de la Grotte. Follow the signs towards the Basilica of St. Pius X. Continue straight until you reach Boulevard Rémi Sempé. The Basilica is located at 97 Boulevard Rémi Sempé, a short 10-minute walk from the Sanctuary.

  • Public Transport

    From the Lourdes city center, go to the nearest bus stop, typically near Place Peyramale. Take a local bus line that goes towards the Sanctuary or directly to the Basilica. Bus routes 4 and 5 will take you to the Sanctuary. The bus will drop you off at the nearest stop on Boulevard Rémi Sempé, from where it is a short walk to the Basilica. A single bus ticket costs €1 and can be used on a connecting service within the hour.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available near the sanctuary and train station. A taxi ride from Lourdes to the Basilica of St. Pius X typically costs €7-€10 and takes about 4 minutes.

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Discover more about Basilica of St. Pius X

The Basilica of St. Pius X, located in Lourdes, France, is an extraordinary and unique Catholic pilgrimage site. Known as the Underground Basilica, it stands as a testament to modern architecture and spiritual devotion. Lourdes is world-renowned for the Marian apparitions of 1858, when Bernadette Soubirous claimed to have seen the Virgin Mary. Since then, Lourdes has become a major pilgrimage center, attracting millions of visitors annually seeking spiritual or physical healing. The basilica was designed by architect Pierre Vago, with engineering assistance from Eugène Freyssinet. Construction began in 1956 and was completed in 1958, coinciding with the centenary of the Marian apparitions. The basilica was consecrated on March 25, 1958, by Cardinal Angelo Roncalli, who later became Pope John XXIII. The basilica was built to provide shelter for pilgrims during processions and to accommodate the growing number of visitors to Lourdes. Unlike traditional churches, the Basilica of St. Pius X is almost entirely underground. The structure spans 201 meters in length and 81 meters in width, with a height of only 10 meters. Its ellipsoidal shape and low ceiling create an intimate atmosphere despite its large capacity. The design, resembling an inverted ship's hull, pays homage to the Christian symbol of the boat. The basilica is supported by 58 concrete pillars and 29 cross beams, ensuring unobstructed views of the central altar. The basilica features 52 gemmail images, a unique art form using layered colored glass. These images depict various saints and scenes, including the 15 mysteries of the Rosary, the Stations of the Cross, and Bernadette's path of light. The interior is sparsely decorated, focusing attention on the spiritual experience. The lighting is entirely artificial, creating a serene ambiance. The Basilica of St. Pius X is more than just a place of worship; it is a symbol of faith and resilience. It embodies a spirit of inclusion and care for the most vulnerable. The basilica serves as a communal space where people from all walks of life come together. It hosts daily Eucharistic processions, international masses, and various spiritual events.

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