Archdiocesan Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes

Did the land itself hold a sacred energy? Here, at the Archdiocesan Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes in Cebu City, the devotion to Our Lady has flowed through different locations, like a river finding its course. Before World War II, Don Pablo Attillo’s family brought the devotion from Manila, building a chapel to Our Lady of Lourdes on their property. The war destroyed this chapel. Yet, like a resilient seed, the devotion was transplanted to the Don Bosco Youth Center. The Archdiocesan Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes eventually found its permanent home on land donated by the Attillo family. This land was intended for a parish administered by the Salesians of Don Bosco. A wooden church arose on the site, initially under the wing of San Nicolas Church. The Archdiocesan Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes gained independence in 1957. Over time, the wooden church gave way to a grander vision. Plutarco Diaz proposed the plans for a new structure, with the cornerstone laid in 1966. Virgilio Asuncion redesigned the church, a project spanning 16 years. This dedication culminated in 2007. The parish, marking its 50th anniversary, became an archdiocesan shrine. The image of Our Lady of Lourdes received an episcopal coronation, a symbol of the deep devotion it inspires. The Archdiocesan Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes is more than just a building. It’s a testament to unwavering faith, rebuilt and reborn. Its architecture tells a story of devotion. The parabolic shell of the nave wall also defines the facade. A concrete overhang creates a portico, sheltering those who enter. The curved grotto holds the statue of Our Lady of Lourdes, with St. Bernadette kneeling in reverence. The massive doorway, adorned with metalwork, welcomes worshippers. A stained-glass window, shaped like a parabola, graces the upper level. The bell tower, echoing the design of San Nicolas Church, reaches skyward with its three columns. It stands as a beacon, calling people to celebrate the feast of Our Lady of Lourdes every February 11th.