Reviving Tourism in Lourdes: The Impact of the Musical “Bernadette de Lourdes”

The small town of Lourdes, France, known for its religious significance and miraculous healing waters, is experiencing a revival in tourism thanks to a new Broadway-style musical based on the life of Bernadette, a young girl who claimed to have seen apparitions of the Virgin Mary in the 19th century.

The musical, titled “Bernadette de Lourdes,” premiered on July 1 and has generated a wave of publicity for the town, which has been struggling with a decline in visitors in recent years. The story follows Bernadette as she experiences multiple visions and discovers a stream with healing powers, leading to the establishment of Lourdes as a major pilgrimage site.

In addition to the musical, Lourdes has been featured in a documentary and a National Geographic special, bringing renewed attention to the town and its religious history. Mayor Josette Bourdeu, who took office in 2014 during a tourism crisis, is optimistic that the spotlight on Lourdes will help boost the town’s economy and attract more visitors.

With a focus on promoting Lourdes as a spiritual destination and highlighting its natural beauty and cultural offerings, the town has seen a slight increase in tourism in recent years. The musical, along with other events planned for the “Year of Bernadette,” aims to continue this trend and showcase the unique history and significance of Lourdes to a wider audience.

Overall, the revival of tourism in Lourdes is a testament to the enduring appeal of the town’s religious heritage and the efforts of local officials and businesses to attract visitors from around the world. As the musical continues to draw crowds and the town celebrates its rich history, Lourdes is poised to reclaim its status as a premier destination for spiritual seekers and tourists alike.