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Discover the parish church of Lourdes

Sacré Cœur Parish Church

There’s more to Lourdes than the Sanctuary and Massabielle Grotto. You don’t want to miss the Sacré Cœur Parish Church and its recently renovated forecourt in the town centre. This historical, religious and architectural site captures the pilgrimage town’s soul and is an important milestone for any visitor on a spiritual journey.

Everything you need to know about…
the parish church’s history

Lourdes flourished after the Apparitions in 1958 and the Sacré-Cœur was built to meet the town’s needs for expansion. Saint-Pierre Church was too cramped and no longer fit for purpose, so Father Peyramale had a new church built in 1875.

Building work on the Romanesque Revival church lasted until the 20th century, when the bell tower was added in 1936. It stands out for its impressive entrance, round arches and soothing atmosphere, which contrasts with the buzzing town outside.

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Father Peyramale, a local hero in Lourdes

No history of the church would be complete without mentioning Dominique Peyramale (1811‑1877). Despite his initial scepticism about Bernadette’s visions, he went onto play a key role in the Apparitions being officially recognised.

He was a man with real personality and embodied the bravery and faith of the people living in Lourdes at the time. His determination saw the Sacré-Cœur built as a symbol of revival for the parish community.

His effigy now takes pride of place on the square opposite the statue of Bernadette: a sculptural dialogue uniting two key figures in Lourdes’ history.

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©Eglise Paroissiale E.dussarps Tourismelourdes 2025 Peyramale

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©Fonds Baptismaux Eglise Paroissiale 2014 Bd P. Vincent Ot Lourdes

Bernadette’s baptismal font

The first thing you notice when you step inside the church is the baptismal font. The Romanesque marble font is priceless and was originally in Saint-Pierre Church.

Bernadette Soubirous was baptised in this very font in 1844, making it both a work of art and sacred relic. With its sculpted sides and gleaming time-worn marble, it symbolises the people of Lourdes’ deep devotion to their saint.

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The forecourt and church square's renovation

A landmark makeover began on the Sacré-Cœur forecourt in summer 2025. Renovation work has transformed the entryway into a leafy and welcoming pedestrian area.

What’s new?

11 trees have been planted to create shade and landscaped areas
A 5m fountain has been crafted from Arudy limestone
It has a new lighting scheme and stylish street furniture

The renovation also puts the statue of Bernadette in the spotlight. It now faces the statue of Father Peyramale and highlights the relationship between history and spirituality. Special attention has been given to disabled access: ramps, suitable signage and paths for wheelchair users.

Lourdes

The Way of Bernadette

Follow in the footsteps of Bernadette: the Way of Bernadette introduces you to the important places in her life.

From Moulin de Boly where she was born to Le Cachot, the home she left on that fateful morning in February 1858, our immersive short videos give you an insight into Bernadette’s life and the history of Lourdes.