The Rosary Square

The royal avenue that leads to the Sanctuary, is truly so when, in the evening, thousands of pilgrims carry their candles while singing; "Ave, Ave, Ave, Maria." The Rosary Square can accommodate over 40,000 people.

The Rosary Square is 130 meters long and 85 meters wide and has been continuously upgraded since 1875

The front of the Rosary Basilica serves as a backdrop for all the important celebrations; under the watchful protection of the Crowned Statue

At 2.5 metres high the Crowned Statue is placed on a granite pedestal and is a rallying point for the millions of pilgrims that come to Lourdes.

Like two open arms, the two ramps, lined with statues, appear to lead the pilgrims towards the Reconciliation Chapel which on the right.

The Crowned Statue

On the west is the front of the Rosary Basilica that serves as a backdrop for all the important celebrations. On the east is the Crowned Statue erected in 1876. The Breton Calvary constructed in 1900 marks the extremity of the area.

On either side of the esplanade, we find two of the most popular saints of our time, St. Teresa of the Child-Jesus and St. Bernadette. The young Bernadette is resting on a stone reciting her Rosary while her sheep rest at her feet. Many other sheep have been added! It was the idea of Mr. and Mrs. Hartmann. It was blessed in 1936.
The statue of Teresa of Lisieux was carved by the Trappist monk, Brother Marie-Bernard. With the gospels in her hand she appears to be teaching the true way of perfection and holiness. It is a gift of the Diocese of Bayeux-Lisieux, and was blessed in 1934.