Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto | Baguio

Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto

Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto is a Catholic shrine and pilgrimage site located on the western slope of Mirador Hill in Baguio City. It is one of the most visited religious landmarks in the summer capital.

Visual Characteristics

The shrine is characterized by a long, steep concrete staircase consisting of 252 steps that lead up to the grotto. At the summit, a large white statue of Our Lady of Lourdes is enshrined within a rock-hewn niche. The site offers a panoramic view of the western part of Baguio City. The surrounding area is densely wooded with pine trees and features various religious statues and prayer stations.

Location & Access Logistics

Address: Dominican Hill Rd, Baguio, 2600 Benguet.

Access: The entrance is located along Dominican Hill Road.

Transport: Accessible via jeepneys labeled "Dominican Hill" or "Lourdes Grotto" from the terminal near the Baguio City Public Market. Taxis are also a common way to reach the site.

Entry: Admission to the shrine is free.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The grotto was established to provide a place of meditation and prayer for devotees of the Virgin Mary, modeled after the famous apparition site in Lourdes, France. It is situated on a high-altitude ridge, part of the city's rugged mountainous terrain.

Key Highlights & Activities

Pilgrimage Climb: Devotees and tourists often climb the 252 steps as an act of penance or for exercise.

Mass and Prayer: Regular masses are held at the chapel located at the foot of the stairs and at the top.

Candle Lighting: Visitors can buy and light colored candles, each representing a specific prayer intention (e.g., health, success, peace).

View Deck: The top level provides an expansive vista of the city and the distant mountains.

Infrastructure & Amenities

For those unable to climb the stairs, a winding road allows vehicles to drive directly to the summit. The area features public restrooms (for a fee), souvenir shops, and food stalls selling local snacks like strawberry taho. 5G cellular coverage is stable.

Best Time to Visit

The shrine is open daily. It is most crowded during Holy Week (Lent) and on Sundays. To avoid crowds and heat, visit during the early morning (06:00–08:00).

Facts & Legends

It is a local tradition for visitors to count the steps as they climb. While the official count is 252, many claim to get different numbers depending on where they start.

Nearby Landmarks

Mirador Heritage and Eco Park: 0.3 km West (within walking distance)

Diplomat Hotel (Dominican Hill): 0.8 km Northwest

Burnham Park: 1.5 km East

Baguio City Public Market: 1.8 km East