Step into the lives of saints at the Lourdes Wax Museum. This popular attraction features waxworks by the same people behind the acclaimed Grévin Museum in Paris. Encounter over 100 wax figures across five floors, including Lourdes’ most famous figure, St. Bernadette. The museum also features scenes from local history as well as a reconstruction of the town as it used to look.
Enter the first floor to learn about Bernadette Soubirous, the saint who encountered a vision of the Virgin Mary at a nearby grotto. She revealed a spring which continues to attract visitors to this day. Follow the key events through lifelike waxworks and dioramas of the story. The display also features a copy of the saint’s reliquary.
Head to the upper floors to see the life of Jesus recreated in colorful scenes. Look for moments such as his entry into Jerusalem and his crucifixion. One particularly striking image creates a Da Vinci-esque interpretation of the last supper that he had with his disciples. Seek out the room that displays other famous religious figures, such as Pope John Paul II and Mother Teresa.
The top floor is dedicated to the town itself. Marvel at a recreation of Lourdes in 1858, when St. Bernadette first had her vision. From here you can also enjoy views of the city, including the complex of churches, the Sanctuary of Notre Dame de Lourdes, that surrounds the grotto.
The museum is located near bus stops and metered parking lots, but it is also reached easily on a walking tour of the town. Stroll here in under 5 minutes from the Castle Fort Pyrenean Museum. The location of the apparition, the Grotto of Massabielle, is just 15 minutes away on foot.
Visit the Lourdes Wax Museum any day of the week, but note that it closes around midday for a short period. Younger visitors pay a reduced admission fee and audio guides are available in multiple languages.
