The working group “Shrines of Europe“ was founded in 1996 and is uniting Europe ́s principle Marian pilgrimage sites: Altötting, Czestochowa, Lourdes, Loreto and Fátima. A few years later the Austrian pilgrimage center Mariazell joined the group. The youngest member of the association is Einsiedeln, the most important place of pilgrimage in Veneration of the Virgin Mary in Switzerland (2017). The importance of these great Marian Shrines was emphasized by the visits of the last European Popes John Paul II and Pope Benedict XVI. Being great devotees of Mary they each visited these shrines during their time in office. All these places have one thing in common: they provide spiritual consolation and new strength for living.
On this website you will find information about each of the Shrines of Europe, the important contact details and suggestions for round trips combining the most important places for pilgrims in veneration of the Virgin Mary in Europe.
Experience Europe in the footsteps of the pilgrims!
How is a Christmas bauble made? What is its history in Częstochowa? You can find the answers to these questions at the Częstochowa Museum, which invites everyone to admire “The Bauble History of Częstochowa” – an exhibition showing that Christmas magic contains remarkable local craftsmanship.
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In Mariazell, the Christmas magic begins as early as November. That’s when the Krampus parades take place – the traditional companions of Saint Nicholas, fearsome creatures straight from hell. It’s a true meeting of good and evil, a time of mischief and pranks that take over the town’s streets. Every year the tradition comes to life again, inviting both children and adults to join the fun. And only those who have been really naughty have anything to worry about…
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Altötting has been a magnet for centuries for those seeking peace and spiritual retreat. At its heart lies the Schatzkammer – a treasury where faith emerges, and every detail carries history. It is a space where access is readily available and offers almost immediate access to Europe's spiritual heritage.
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The contest for the best regional education lesson plan, combining local identity with European values, has come to an end. The initiative, organized by the Shrines of Europe Association, the City of Częstochowa, and the Częstochowa Tourist Organization, encouraged teachers to design inspiring lessons about the region within the context of international cooperation between sanctuary cities.
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Tourism connects people, places, and cultures. Therefore, World Tourism Day, celebrated in all cities of the Shrines of Europe, is an opportunity to build an open and welcoming Europe and to emphasize the importance of cooperation between various groups – local governments, tourism organizations, businesses, social activists, and residents. See how we celebrated in Częstochowa.
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On the weekend of September 20 and 21, 2025, Lourdes invites residents, pilgrims, and tourists to a unique cultural celebration – European Heritage Days. This event, celebrated in many European cities, takes on a special dimension in Lourdes. Here, history, spirituality, and art come together in one place, creating an unforgettable experience.
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Take a panoramic tour through the Shrines of Europe cities
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