Lourdes grotto

The Lourdes Grotto replica in Besenbüren is a small woodland shrine in the municipality of Besenbüren, in the Freiamt region of the Swiss canton of Aargau. Built in 1929, it copies the famous pilgrimage site in Lourdes, France, and makes a quiet stop for a short walk.

What is this place?

The grotto sits in a patch of forest at the edge of the village, in the Nachtheuel area of Hinterdorf. It is compact and modest. Inside stand statues of the Virgin Mary and of Saint Bernadette Soubirous, the young woman who reported the apparitions at Lourdes in 1858. The figures were bought on a pilgrimage to Lourdes itself.

The Aargau heritage inventory calls it a scenically placed, small-format grotto and a typical example of the Lourdes copies that were popular in the first half of the 20th century. More than twenty were built across the canton, many of them in the Freiamt and the Fricktal.

How did the Besenbüren grotto come about?

In summer 1929, Hermine Keusch-Stöckli, a former straw-goods manufacturer, and Marie Ettli, a needlework teacher, launched the project. The landowner, Josef Laubacher, gave the woodland plot free of charge. Luigi Parietti, an Italian living in the village, served as master builder. The tuff stone came from nearby Aristau, and the local gymnastics club handled much of the hauling.

The grotto was consecrated in October 1929 on the feast of the Rosary. Because many villagers took part in the work, the inventory stresses its local and social importance.

What will you see?

• a tuff-stone grotto among the trees,
• statues of Mary and Bernadette,
• a shaded, peaceful forest setting for a moment of quiet.

There is no ticket office or visitor infrastructure. This is a place of prayer, so keep voices low and dress modestly.

How do you get there?

Besenbüren lies in southern Aargau, in the Bremgarten district. Reach the village by car or by regional transport from the towns of the Freiamt. The grotto is at the edge of the built-up area in Hinterdorf, followed by a short walk along a forest track. Pin the spot in a map app or ask at the municipality for directions.

When should you go?

Spring to autumn is best, when the path is dry. October has a special note, as the anniversary of the consecration and the Rosary feast fall then. Forest ground can be slippery after rain, so wear sturdy shoes.

Frequently asked questions

Is this the original Lourdes? No. It is a replica of the Massabielle Grotto in France, built in 1929.

Who built it? Hermine Keusch-Stöckli and Marie Ettli started it, and Luigi Parietti led the masonry with help from villagers.

Is there an entry fee? No. The grotto stands in the woods and is freely accessible.

How long should you plan for a visit? About 20 to 30 minutes, including the short walk.