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.

Located in the dynamic Lourdes, the popular Basilica of St. Pius X is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful town of Lourdes or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through France.

Lourdes is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Lourdes offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Lourdes and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, Sanctuaires Notre-Dame de Lourdes, Château Fort Musée Pyrénéen, Church of Saint Bernadette, and Les Halles.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Lourdes has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Lourdes, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in France!

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 Lourdes. 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. You can also rent a car and drive to Basilica of St. Pius X, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. 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.

There's no better way to discover the wonders of Basilica of St. Pius X and other top attractions in Lourdes than with a perfectly planned holiday package! Travel packages to Lourdes include everything you need to fully immerse yourself in Basilica of St. Pius X's wonders and in the beauty and history of the region. These packages offer the perfect opportunity to delve into Basilica of St. Pius X and experience a variety of activities and destinations tailored to suit all types of travelers.

Keep reading to discover the best travel plans and insider tips for uncovering the charm of this one-of-a-kind minor basilica in France.

With a rental car, discovering the popular Basilica of St. Pius X and France's captivating landscapes becomes a breeze, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 3 reputable rental car companies near Tarbes–Lourdes–Pyrénées Airport and the town of Lourdes, making transportation seamless and efficient.

Rental car companies in France cater to a variety of preferences, offering vehicles ranging from compact and midsize to premium, estate, and even camper vans or convertibles. To select the perfect ride, consider your itinerary and specific travel plans in Lourdes and beyond.

Conveniently explore Basilica of St. Pius X and plenty more captivating attractions in Lourdes by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the town. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Basilica of St. Pius X and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Lourdes has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Basilica of St. Pius X below.

Aside from Basilica of St. Pius X, Lourdes is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the town offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Lourdes, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, Sanctuaires Notre-Dame de Lourdes, and Château Fort Musée Pyrénéen.

Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary is a bucket-list church and top attraction in Lourdes, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 6,100 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the town. The exact address of Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary is 1 Av. Mgr Théas, 65100 Lourdes, France.

Another appreciated attraction in Lourdes is Sanctuaires Notre-Dame de Lourdes. Like Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the town. With an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars among 3,200 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this establishment is 1 Av. Mgr Théas, 65108 Lourdes, France.

Château Fort Musée Pyrénéen is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Lourdes. This museum and top attraction in Lourdes has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,800 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of 25 Rue du Fort, 65100 Lourdes, France.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the town of Lourdes below.