When Anne & I decided to visit the Sanctuary at Lourdes that her grandfather visited 100 years ago, I thought I’d see what else in Lourdes might be of interest. Sure enough, there was a castle! Not surprising really as Lourdes has an important position at the edge of the Pyrenees. An interesting contrast, however, to the beauty of the Sanctuary. Of course, I had to check it out. Sitting on a rocky outcrop, it’s the highest structure in Lourdes and dominates the skyline while giving great views over the city and surrounding countryside. What really struck me, however, was the impressively purposeful design. This was a castle built to resist any attack by incorporating every aspect of its location. The only two entrances were small pedestrian doors; no big gate & drawbridge here. The main entrance was approached by a steep winding walkway that a donkey cart might get up to bring supplies. The other was up a series of steep staircases interrupted by walled courtyards that served as defensive choke points. In fact, the two foot approaches are so demanding, the city built an elevator tower next to the cliff face to take visitors to the top. Anyway, that wraps up our first pass in France; on to Spain and some remarkable cathedrals.
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