Basilica of St. Pius X travel guide

The Basilica of St. Pius X, often referred to as the Underground Basilica, is a significant and modern addition to the pilgrimage site of Lourdes. Built between 1956 and 1958, it was inaugurated on March 25, 1958, during the centenary celebrations of the Apparitions of the Virgin Mary to Bernadette Soubirous. The basilica was designed by the French architect Pierre Vago and is notable for its unique, underground structure, which sets it apart from traditional basilicas.

With a capacity to accommodate up to 25,000 pilgrims, the Basilica of St. Pius X is one of the largest churches in the world. Its vast, elliptical design and innovative use of concrete and stained glass create a serene, contemplative atmosphere. The basilica was named in honor of Pope Pius X, who was canonized in 1954 and known for his dedication to the Eucharist and liturgical reforms.

Today, the Basilica of St. Pius X continues to be a central hub for pilgrims visiting Lourdes, offering a space for large-scale liturgical celebrations, prayer gatherings, and spiritual reflection.

A remarkable feature of the Basilica of St. Pius X, also known as the Underground Basilica, is its immense size. Designed to accommodate up to 25,000 worshippers, it spans approximately 12,000 square meters, making it one of the largest churches in the world. Its unusual architecture is modern and utilitarian, contrasting with the more traditional styles of other basilicas. The structure is elliptical and built almost entirely underground, with a length of 191 meters and a width of 61 meters.

The basilica's roof comprises a series of concrete beams arranged in a grid pattern, supported by 58 pillars, allowing for an open, column-free interior space that enhances visibility and acoustics. The lighting system is another distinctive aspect, with natural light filtering through colored glass inserts and artificial lighting strategically placed to create a serene ambiance. The Stations of the Cross and the Rosary Chapels are represented by modern mosaics, adding a contemporary artistic touch. Moreover, the basilica includes a vast esplanade, known as the Pius-X esplanade, which serves as an area for large-scale outdoor ceremonies and gatherings.

Discover Basilica of St. Pius X, a prime feature of Lourdes, in the vibrant Lourdes. Basilica of St. Pius X is situated at 97 Bd Rémi Sempé, 65100 Lourdes, France, just a short distance from Sanctuaires Notre-Dame de Lourdes and Funiculaire du Pic du Jer, making it a perfect addition to your itinerary.

In the vicinity of Basilica of St. Pius X, various dining and shopping options await, alongside a lively atmosphere that captures the essence of local life. This location serves as a perfect starting point or a key highlight during your exploration of Lourdes, a town in France rich with cultural and adventurous activities.

When planning your trip, timing is key. Explore travel trips and ideas on this town from the comprehensive Lourdes travel guide for an unforgettable adventure.

Basilica of St. Pius X is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Lourdes, France. If you're flying in, Tarbes–Lourdes–Pyrénées Airport is approximately 6.6 miles (10.6 km) away from the town center. From there, you can easily reach Basilica of St. Pius X by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Lourdes, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Basilica of St. Pius X, which is located 0.4 miles (0.7 km) from the city center. Its exact address is 97 Bd Rémi Sempé, 65100 Lourdes, France.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Basilica of St. Pius X!

The best time to explore Basilica of St. Pius X in Lourdes, France, is during the spring and early autumn months, specifically April to June and September to October. During these periods, the weather is pleasant with mild temperatures, making it comfortable for walking and sightseeing. Additionally, these months typically see fewer crowds compared to the peak summer season, allowing for a more serene and reflective experience within the basilica.

July and August, although warmer, coincide with school holidays and the height of the pilgrimage season, which can result in larger crowds. However, this period also offers unique opportunities to witness special religious events and ceremonies that add a rich cultural dimension to your visit.

To further enhance your experience, consider planning your visit around key events such as the Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes on February 11th or the International Military Pilgrimage in May. These events draw visitors from around the world and provide a unique atmosphere filled with devotion and community spirit.

Regardless of when you visit, aim to arrive early in the day to enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the basilica before it becomes busier. This will ensure you get the most out of your visit to this remarkable site.

With everything seamlessly arranged for your trip to Lourdes, you can simply pack your bags and look forward to exploring Basilica of St. Pius X.

Keep reading to discover the best options for experiencing this iconic minor basilica in France.

Upon arriving at Tarbes–Lourdes–Pyrénées Airport, you’ll find 3 reputable rental car companies conveniently situated near the town of Lourdes.

Click 'See More' to unlock other affordable car rental options in Lourdes.

Choosing the right accommodation near Basilica of St. Pius X from the widest selection of hotels and places to stay in Lourdes can truly make all the difference in your trip. Not only will you be within a comfortable distance from Basilica of St. Pius X, but you’ll also enjoy the best rates available, backed by 24/7 customer service and glowing reviews.

To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve curated a handpicked list of top-rated hotels nearby.

Beyond Basilica of St. Pius X, Lourdes boasts plenty more landmarks that make every trip unforgettable. From church to museum, the top attractions in Lourdes offer experiences you won’t want to miss.

One of the most notable attractions to visit while in Lourdes is Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, located at 1 Av. Mgr Théas, 65100 Lourdes, France. This well-known church enhances your time in the town.

Whether you plan a short visit or take time to explore fully, Sanctuaires Notre-Dame de Lourdes is worth seeing when you're in Lourdes. It's a popular establishment that’s perfect for rounding out your itinerary. You’ll find it at 1 Av. Mgr Théas, 65108 Lourdes, France.

For an unforgettable addition to your itinerary, a visit to Château Fort Musée Pyrénéen completes any trip to Lourdes. This museum draws visitors with its unique appeal, making it an essential stop on your journey. Located at 25 Rue du Fort, 65100 Lourdes, France, its surroundings offer plenty of reasons to linger a little longer.

The town's top sights offer a wide variety of experiences to make your trip truly memorable. Check out the full list of top attractions in Lourdes below to discover even more incredible places to explore.