Basilica of St. Pius X — Attraction in Argelès-Gazost

In contrast to the midday warmth on the Pont Saint Michel, the gaping maw that is the entrance into the hard grey concrete of the subterranean Basilica Saint Pie X draws you deep into the belly of this colossal tomb like structure. At first you could mistake the huge cavernous structure for the setting of a futuristic sci-fi novel. As you pass the threshold of the main entrance the walls insidiously seep a breath of cool chilling air in to this dimly lit behemoth of a space. With a floor area of 12,000m2 or two whole football pitches, this immense feat of architectural magnificence can hold a staggering 25,000 people which puts its capacity on a par with the famous Plaza de Toros Las Ventas in Madrid. The walls are adorned with the Mysteries of the Rosary, the Stations of the Cross and the series "Bernadette's Way of Light". The ethereal faces of the long dead characters from the Old and the New Testament , apostles , martyrs, religious men and women, bishops, priests, missionaries, theologians and lay people stare forlornly from the hanging drapes, besieging the basilica’s visitors. When you feel the necessity to emerge from the cloying darkness, the curved ramp to the outside is like a tongue spewing forth its patrons to the light of the naturally lit world. Splendidly enjoyable.

Open every day with the exception of...

On 14/07/24, I Pope Pius X Basilica in Lourdes for our International Mass. there were people from all over The World, at this Mass & Priests, Chaplins & Bishops from every country that had Pilgrims in Lourdes, who were participating in The International Mass there & they spoke in different languages for their pilgrims to understand what was being said. Pope Pius X Basilica was built in 1957 & completed in time for it to be opened for The Centenary celebrations of The Apparitions that took place at The Holy Grotto in February 1858. The Basilica is very big & has over 10 concrete beams to support the ceiling of The Basilica. when you go to Lourdes & are thinking of visiting Pope Pius X Basilica, ask at your hotel for details on how to get there & if there's any ceremonies on there. If you are intending to travel to Lourdes, everything is back to normal & restrictions have been scrapped there after virtually 3 & a half years of uncertainty....

The Basilica of St. Pius X in Lourdes is an extraordinary place of worship that left a deep impression on me. As one of the largest underground basilicas in the world, its sheer size is awe-inspiring, and the modern architectural design is both unique and fitting for such a significant spiritual site.

The atmosphere inside the basilica is one of profound peace and reverence. Despite its capacity to hold thousands of pilgrims, the space feels surprisingly intimate, making it an ideal setting for prayer and reflection. The simplicity of the concrete arches and minimalist decor enhances the sense of calm and allows visitors to focus on the spiritual experience.

One thing to note, however, is that there were quite a few mosquitoes inside, which was a bit of an annoyance during our visit. While it didn’t detract from the overall experience, it’s something to be aware of, especially if you’re sensitive to...