Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes

Blackpool | Listed Grade II*

Transport

There is a bus connection between Blackpool North station (approx 2 miles away.)

History and Architecture

The shrine was built as a Roman Catholic convent chapel designed by the distinguished Francis Xavier Velarde. It dates from 1955–7.

Velarde was interested in blending historic styles with modern motifs. The result at Blackpool exhibited a highly individual, expressive, modern interpretation.

The chapel is of Portland stone externally with a copper roof and fleche, it is ornamented with four statues, one at each corner, with a relief on the facade above the entrance by the sculptor David John.

The interior is dominated by gold mosaic columns, supporting a ceiling of vivid blue, red and gold against a background of pale grey rendered walls.

The windows form a high screen of pierced stone forming a bold geometric pattern along each wall.
 

Repair and Regeneration

A first phase of repairs was completed in April 2008. This consisted of repairs to the leaking copper roof and re-designing a defective rainwater disposal system. The works cost £100,000.

A later phase will complete repairs and introduce new facilities.