Subject related visits
The Basilica of the Rosary
When she appeared at Lourdes the Virgin Mary was described by St. Bernadette as holding a rosary in her hand. The Basilica of the Rosary is dedicated to this theme and its three arches depict the joy, sorrow and glory of the lives of Jesus and Mary. Your group will be able to reflect on these symbols while visiting the Basilica.
Lourdes lake and woodland area
The forest where Bernadette gathered dead wood and the site of the Apparitions of our Blessed Mother is also a wonderful natural area which has a selection of picnic spors, well trodden paths and an exercise course.
the Lourdes Museum
This museum is dedicated to the history of the area at the time of the apparitions. Pupils will discover information and pictures that show what life was like in 1859, there are also exhibitions which concentrate on the trades, traditional dress and the customs of Lourdes. Pupils can compare and contrast historic Lourdes to the contemporary version and evaluate the effects of tourism.
St. Savin Abbey Church
Dubbed the 'Romanesque Sistine Chapel', the Abbey of St. Savin is a UNESCO World Heritage Site near Poiters and is famed for its many beautiful and well preserved 11th & 12th century murals. A trip here will allow pupils to find out more about the famous Spanish monk, St. Savin, while enjoying the many ancient works of religious art.
The Gemmail Museum
This museum houses a complete collection of paintings illustrating the works of masters through non-leaded stained glass windows. This technique was first used in 1939 by the painter Jean Crotti and the physician Emmanuel Malherbe and combines: colour, glass and light to create some exquisite images.
Pyrenees animal park
Allow your pupils to discover the wild animals of the Pyrenees that are roaming freely throughout this wonderful Lavedan Valley parkland. Marmots are the major stars of the show and will come right next to you to have their photos taken!
