Miracles can happen, to almost anyone, anywhere, in any manner or fashion, even with your eyes closed. But miracles can be specious, especially when your eyes are closed. So, it was interesting when this article (courtesy of OperaNews..com) called out about some of the financial practices of certain “holy” places. See below.
In their article (Međugorje, Lourdes, Fatima: (Religious tourism earns one town €270m but what are devotees seeking?) it was noted that while only 15,000 people live in Lourdes, five to six million tourists visit every year. Again, that is their prerogative and we’re not one to pass judgment, but it is curious. Why is that?
Of course, there is the famous destination itself: Lourdes is a renowned pilgrimage site and popular tourist destination. So, perhaps, that’s why people visit Lourdes and what else the area has to offer: it’s famous for its healing waters, which are believed to have miraculous properties.
Millions of pilgrims visit Lourdes each year to pray and seek healing there for those reasons. There is also The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes, the Grotto of Massabielle, and the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception are significant pilgrimage sites.
If this kind of religion is not your thing, you can explore the historic Castle Fort, which offers panoramic views of the town and the Pyrenees Mountains. And, again, pilgrimage or not, you can take a cable car ride to the Pic du Jer, a mountain peak with stunning views of the surrounding region.
That’s achieving the heights of a different kind. There is also Grotte de Bétharram: Visit this underground cave system, known for its impressive stalactites and stalagmites. And, if you run out of things to do, why not just spend the days walking and hiking?
You might want a car. Booking. com has them. Click There’s no getting around getting around. Plan well by visiting Mountain Warehouse. Click here. Fly Vueling to Lourdes. Modern jets, comprehensive routes, great prices. To book click here .
