Glossary

The Domaine is the “real” Lourdes and is the spiritual centre containing the Basilicas, Grotto and Baths. There are three main entrances, St Michael’s Gate, St Joseph’s Gate and then a gate behind the Upper Basilica that is used during the night if the other two are closed. The whole area should be regarded as a Holy Place and treated respectfully i.e. definitely no smoking, no mobile phones, and no loud talking. The guards may turn you away if, in their opinion, you are not dressed correctly.

The Accueil Notre-Dame is situated in the Domaine.  It is not a hospital in the usual sense but it is where our sick pilgrims are cared for during the week in Lourdes.  Literally, it means Our Lady Welcomes, and this is symbolised by the design of the building depicting welcoming open arms. It is situated on the far side of the River Gave near to St Bernadette’s Church.

The Baths are situated past the Grotto and are visited by pilgrims in response to Our Lady’s invitation to Bernadette on 25th February 1858 “Go and drink at the spring and wash in it.” Directly opposite the Baths across the river on the Prairie is the Water Walk which gives an opportunity to reflect on the waters of Lourdes without going to the Baths.

Brancardier is the title given to male volunteer helpers. It is the French word for stretcher-bearer who in the old days would carry sick pilgrims from the railway station to the hospital. 

To support the weight of stretchers brancardiers wore canvas or leather bretelles, a type of shoulder harness which was, until recently, worn as a badge of office whilst on duty. When you enter the Domaine by St Joseph’s Gate you will see, halfway down the path on your left, a statue entitled Salus Infirmorum which was donated by the Diocese of Cambrai in 1912. A kneeling brancardier is shown supporting a sick pilgrim’s stretcher with the aid of his bretelles.  The female helpers are known as Handmaids.

The Cachot is situated in the town and is the former prison where St Bernadette’s family lived in impoverished conditions.