Here's an updated social media post, aiming for more power and meaning, and including the climb height and total stairs: A truly profound experience today at Lourdes Grotto in Baguio. I ascended all 252 steps, climbing to an elevation of approximately 2,800 feet (850 meters), each step a testament to faith and a personal pilgrimage for peace. š
At the summit, amidst the sacred silence, I lit candles and offered flowers, my prayers reaching out not just to the heavens, but to every heart on Earth. It's a plea for humanity to shed the shackles of pride and hatred that divide us, regardless of belief. Does it truly matter if you call upon
Yahweh or Allah, or no deity at all? What truly resonates is the state of your heart. If it's overflowing with animosity and condemnation for those who believe differently, you are but a self-proclaimed, overcompensated judge, straying from the very principles of compassion and understanding that all paths, religious or not, should uphold. May we all find the grace to love, to understand, and to unite. Our world desperately needs it. ā¤ļøāš©¹š #LourdesGrotto #Baguio #SpiritualJourney #BeyondBelief #LoveNotHate #UnityInDiversity #ConqueredTheClimb #PrayerForHumanity #NoRoomForHate #ElevateYourSoul #Philippines #TravelForMeaning #OneHumanRace...
Ā Ā Ā Read moreOur Lady of Lourdes Grotto, Baguio: A Spiritual and Scenic Retreat
Located on Mirador Hill in Baguio City, the Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto is a serene Catholic shrine that offers both spiritual solace and breathtaking views. Constructed in 1913, the grotto features a beautiful statue of the Virgin Mary, crafted by renowned artist Isabelo Tampingco.
Visitors to the grotto must climb a set of 252 steps, which can be quite a challenge but is well worth the effort. The climb is a small sacrifice for the stunning panoramic view of Baguio City that awaits at the top. The grotto is especially popular during Holy Week, attracting pilgrims and devotees from all over.
The grotto is open daily from 6:00 AM to 7:30 PM, and it's recommended to visit during the dry season (late December to May) for the best experience. Comfortable shoes are a must, and it's advisable to bring water and a hat for the climb.
Despite the crowds and vendors selling candles and souvenirs, the grotto maintains its solemn and peaceful atmosphere. It's a place where you can find a moment of tranquility and connect with your spirituality while enjoying the natural...
Ā Ā Ā Read moreFor devotees of Our Lady of Lourdes, this is a must visit. Prepare to climb the stairs up to the grotto. There is an accessibility ramp where cars can go up and park at the highest point so no worries for seniors and PWDs.
There are signages that restrict visitors bringing pets, so consider yourselves warned. A lot of stray cats on the stairs though.
A lot of gardens act as ststions of rest as you climb the grotto. Fantastic view of Baguio and the mountains. Lots of flowers depending on season. I went there this April so flowers are still in bloom.
Candles are available at the grotto on top through the honesty boxes. But be advised they quickly run out depending on the nunber of visitors. On the other hand there are people selling candles and flowers at the foot of the stairs, but quite pricey if you ask me.
Lots of canteens and stores along the streets going...
Ā Ā Ā Read more