Serene, beautiful, and holy Lourdes is an important town in southwestern France. It is famous for its sanctuaries and is a popular pilgrimage destination. The little Lourdes model village rates among the top tours for travellers to the region. Get a look at the unique and successful reconstruction of the history and origin of this quaint town at Le Petit Lourdes museum. This lovely museum, on the banks of the Gave river, has an impressive miniature model of the town that took two decades to be completed. It narrates the story of Bernadette Soubirous, who is believed to have been visited 18 times by the Virgin Mary. This stunning and exquisite marvel is the handcrafted work of a local artist that appeals to people of all ages equally. It also has a blooming garden full of colorful flowers and beautiful bonsai trees. To make the most of this calm place, here’s a guide to Le Petit Lourdes.
Things to do / Highlights
Look forward to a warm welcome extended by the grandson of the talented creator of this incredible museum. Enjoy interacting with him and his cheerful team as you wander around this charming establishment. Get all your questions answered and know all about life in the 1800s. This well-maintained, family-run attraction is informative, interesting, and incredible.
Learn about life and times of Bernadette Soubirous
Get a close look at the perfectly reproduced example of the 19th-century Lourdes. Learn about the essential simplicity of the life and times of Bernadette Soubirous as you enjoy the tour that lasts for about an hour. Pick up interesting tidbits about Lourdes and Bernadette as you listen to the clear and simple explanations. It makes for a good family outing, given the innovative concept, storytelling, and precise artwork.
Check out the miniature replicas
You can walk around miniature replicas of the countryside and appreciate the attention to detail. From depictions of original old masonry houses in a natural open landscape, to brooks, old mills, the parish house, the prison, church, and historic monuments, are all wonderfully reproduced in a pretty garden of flowers and bonsai.
From the station to the mills, through the cave, the impressive castle set on a rock and the basilica - everything is in miniature with all the important landmarks included. Marvel at elements such as running water, a lovely model train, the stained glass windows of the basilica, and figures walking or doing laundry that give the miniature village a life-like feel. Wander around the museum getting an idea about the immense passion, long years of hard work, patience, perseverance, and devotion that must have gone into single-handedly creating this fascinating miniature masterpiece!
Travel tips
Audio guide
Be sure to click some excellent photographs of your visit here and include close-up shots of the finer details. The audio guide is available in many languages, including English, French, Dutch, and German, thus making it convenient for tourists from across the globe.
Set aside a couple of hours
Set aside at least a couple of hours to see the museum in its entirety. There is no point in rushing around this place as you will likely miss a lot of the finer details. Do not miss the excellent show at the end of the tour. Also, please wear comfortable footwear appropriate for walking.
Buy souvenirs
You could also check out the gift shop located near the museum’s exit to find some souvenirs for friends and family back home. You can browse through the lovely collection for some exquisite pieces to remember your visit.
Packages
There are different packages available, including combining visits to other tourist attractions, sightseeing, and bus rides. Packages with a trip on the train passing through Lourdes and a visit to other museums are also an option.
People with disabilities
The museum is not accessible for people with disabilities or those using wheelchairs. However, the kind and helpful people at the reception are willing to do their best for guests with special needs, and to help them experience this amazing tour. There is a guided tour for groups and it can be pre-booked. Be sure to check this option well before your planned visit.
How to get there
On foot
Le Petit Lourdes is definitely worth a visit and can be accessed from the Chateau Fort that towers above the town. Walking along the river is also an option to reach the museum.
By train
There is also the little train of Lourdes that can drop you right at the museum door.
By bus
Avenue du Paradis is the closest bus stop to this fascinating museum.
By car
Travelling to the museum by car is also a popular option and there is plenty of free parking space available.
How to book tickets
Tickets can be booked online or at the museum. Booking online will save you having to wait in a queue. You could instead spend more time in the museum. The cost of the ticket includes the price of the audio guide.
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Le Petit Lourdes information
Le Petit Lourdes
Address: 68 Avenue Peyramale, 65100 Lourdes, France
Website: Le Petit Lourdes
Opening hours: 10am - 12pm; 2pm - 5pm (daily)
Price: 9 USD (Adults); 4.90 USD (Children)
Department of Tourism: Visit France
History
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