Pontmain Sanctuary

In the heart of the Mayenne countryside, just 16 minutes' drive from our gîte, lies an extraordinary village: Pontmain. This name, discreet on maps, is nonetheless famous in the hearts of many believers. And even without being a pilgrim, the discovery of Pontmain often leaves a lasting impression.

It is a peaceful place, surrounded by fields and hedgerows. Yet, in the depths of winter 1871, it became — for a few hours — a bridge between earth and sky.

An apparition in wartime

It is 17th January 1871. France is at war with Prussia. The French army is weakened, towns are falling one by one, fear is everywhere. The village of Pontmain, a small hamlet of a few houses, experiences these dark hours in silence and prayer.

That evening, around 6pm, two brothers, Eugène and Joseph Barbedette, are helping their parents in a barn. Stepping outside for a moment, they look up at the sky… and see a woman suspended in the air, smiling, dressed in blue, with stars twinkling on her dress.

They describe a lady full of sweetness, with outstretched hands, framed by a triangle formed by three golden stars. They are soon joined by two other children, Françoise Richer and Jeanne-Marie Lebossé, who see the same thing. But the adults, on the other hand, see nothing.

The children remain calm and amazed. Their gaze does not move. Very quickly, the villagers rush to the barn. A climate of prayer settles in. The Sisters of the school, followed by Father Michel Guérin, the village priest, arrive in turn. Everyone begins to pray.

A message of hope

As the prayers rise, the apparition evolves. A luminous oval appears around the Virgin. Candles, a red cross on her heart, and then a white banner slowly unfurl. As the faithful recite the rosary, the silhouette of the Virgin seems to grow.

Little by little, words in gold letters are written on the banner:

« But pray, my children, God will answer you in a short time. My Son allows Himself to be touched. »

This message, simple and clear, profoundly touched hearts. It was a direct response to the anxieties of the moment. And a few days later, the war ceased. The armistice was signed on 28 January 1871. Not a drop of blood was shed in the region.

What do we see today in Pontmain?

The village has maintained a calm and reflective atmosphere, yet it welcomes thousands of visitors each year. Whether one is a believer or not, the experience of Pontmain is unique.

1. The Basilica of Our Lady of Pontmain

The imposing neo-Gothic basilica was built on the site of the apparition. Upon arrival, one is struck by its verticality, its light, and the golden stars painted on the interior vault, in reference to the Virgin's robe.

The architecture, the stained glass, and the sculptures tell the story of this evening of 17th January. It is a place of silence, prayer, but also of artistic beauty.

2. The "Michel Guérin" Museum

Available on request at the sanctuary, this museum pays tribute to Abbé Michel Guérin, the parish priest of Pontmain from 1836 to 1872. He was the one who profoundly transformed the parish by rebuilding the church, revitalising religious life, and providing spiritual support to his parishioners.

He was also the humble and faithful witness of the apparition. A process for his beatification has been open since 2013.

3. The Path of the Seers

As you walk through the village, you will be able to follow in the footsteps of the children, some of whose graves are located in Pontmain itself, while others are in Châtillon-sur-Colmont or Bordeaux. Informative panels help to better understand their story, their life choices, and the legacy they left behind.

A trip for everyone

What makes the richness of Pontmain is also its ability to touch each person differently:

• Children are often amazed by the basilica, the stars, and the simplicity of the story.
• Adults find a place of calm, reflection and sometimes meditation there.
• The curious or history enthusiasts discover a little-known episode related to the war of 1870, through a spiritual and popular prism.

It is also an ideal place for a contemplative break during your holiday: taking the time to listen to the chants in the basilica, sitting in the park, and visiting the shop of books and religious objects.

Visitor tips

• Entrance to the basilica is free of charge all year round.
• Services are held daily, as well as organized prayer times.
• Guided tours may be offered during major pilgrimages or on request.
• The site is family-friendly and has free parking.

And if you come at the right time, you might even witness a special celebration, particularly on 17th January (the anniversary of the apparition), or during the summer pilgrimages.

A peaceful outing idea 14 km from the cottage

Pontmain is not a place like any other. People come here to see, but above all to feel. The serenity of the place, the history conveyed with humility, the strength of the message: all of this makes Pontmain a unique location, even for non-believers.

So, during your stay with us, why not dedicate half a day to this visit? Whether you go out of curiosity, faith, or simply to discover a part of the local heritage, you will come away touched.

📍 Distance from the cottage: 14 km (16 minutes by car)

🕊️ Atmosphere: calm, spiritual, welcoming

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