Lourdes Grotto

The Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto is a renowned Catholic shrine located on Mirador Hill in Baguio City. Originally constructed in 1913, the grotto was primarily built using limestone, a material also used for the construction of the nearby Mirador Jesuit Villa. The central feature of the shrine is a statue of Our Lady of Lourdes, a religious icon sculpted by the acclaimed Filipino artist Isabelo Tampingco. The statue, created from polychromed molave wood, is not only a focal point for devotion but also a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of the artist.

While the grotto serves as a place of spiritual reflection and worship, it is also a popular destination for tourists. Visitors flock to the site not only for its religious significance but also for the breathtaking panoramic views it offers of Baguio City and the surrounding mountains. The site’s location atop Mirador Hill provides a stunning vantage point, making it a perfect spot for sightseeing and photography.

To reach the grotto, visitors must ascend a stairway consisting of approximately 252 steps, a task that can be physically demanding but rewarding. The stairway took about five years to complete and is a symbol of dedication and devotion. For many pilgrims, the climb is part of the spiritual experience, and reaching the top is seen as an act of prayer and reverence.

However, in 1990, the stairway was significantly damaged due to a powerful earthquake that struck Baguio City and surrounding areas. Despite the damage, the grotto was restored, and a center rail was added to provide additional support for elderly visitors and those in need of assistance. In 2007, further improvements were made with the addition of a handicap-accessible route, ensuring that more people could visit the shrine and enjoy its peaceful atmosphere.

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to visit the Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto is during the dry season, which typically runs from late December to May. During these months, Baguio experiences less rainfall, allowing for clearer views of the city and the surrounding landscape. The dry season also brings a cooler climate compared to the rest of the country, making it an excellent escape from the intense heat of the lowlands, especially during the summer months. The combination of a comfortable climate and unobstructed views makes this the perfect time to visit and fully appreciate the beauty and serenity of the grotto.