Locations
Locations within the Sanctuary of Saint Bernadette Soubirous of Nevers …
Locations within the Sanctuary of Saint Bernadette Soubirous of Nevers …
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A short distance from the chapel and the shrine of Bernadette, a replica of the grotto of Masabielle, where the apparitions had taken place, was built in 1884. People come here to pray.
Bernadette died at the age of 35 in the infirmary, which is now Holy Cross Oratory. During her thirteen years at Saint Gildard, she served as assistant-nurse, head-nurse and sacristan during which time she was often ill.
Bernadette’s body, when exhumed for the process of beatification, was found to be intact, to the surprise of those present.
Since 3rd August 1925, following her beatification, Bernadette’s body lies in a glass shrine in the chapel of the convent of Saint- Gildard in Nevers.
Built on the ruins of Saint Gildard’s Abbey, this simple and bright chapel was consecrated in 1856 when the community of the Sisters of Charity of Nevers moved into this new building.
The museum highlights the various steps in Bernadette’s life: the cachot, the grotto, Hospice of Lourdes and her time in Nevers. Some photographs and artefacts depict her daily life.
On 7th July 1866, Bernadette Soubirous accompanied by the Superior of Lourdes and two other young girls, crossed the threshold of the Motherhouse in Nevers. Engraved in stone, above the entrance, the words ‘Deus Charitas Est’ which Bernadette would have seen, describe the spirit of the Congregation since its foundation.
A cloister, with huge glass windows, overlooks the flowerbeds. Its sunlit corridors lead to lounges, reading rooms, conference rooms and dining rooms.
Here in July 1866, wearing her Pyrenean costume, Bernadette told the story of the apparitions for the last time to 300 Sisters.
Bernadette Soubirous died on 16th April, 1879 and was interred in this chapel for 40 years. The chapel is located in the middle of the sanctuary gardens, at the end of an avenue lined with beautiful lime trees.
This ‘gite’ is situated in the gardens and detached from the Sanctuary. It is wheelchair accessible and can accommodate up to 15 people. It is made available to pilgrims en route to St. James of Compostella, also to hikers.
The paths which cross the large gardens lead to this statue in front of which Bernadette chose to pray. She used to say: “It is she who reminds me most of the Lady I saw.”
Located in a unique setting in the town centre, Espace Bernadette provides sleeping accommodation for up to 200 people. Bedrooms are located on the first and second floors.
Espace Bernadette, formerly Saint-Gildard, offers multi-purpose rooms with professional equipment for up to 250 people.
Food is served in the dining rooms seven days a week. Up to 200 people can be catered for daily.