The Grotto of Lourdes in the Vatican Gardens is a true gem within the walls of the Vatican City State. It is a miniature replica of the famous grotto in Lourdes, France, where the Virgin Mary appeared to St. Bernadette in 1858. This special place was created as a retreat for prayer and contemplation and is located in a secluded area of the Vatican Gardens, away from the busy hub of the city. 

The Bishop of Tarbes, Monsignor Francis Xavier Schoepfer, began the initiative to build the replica of the Grotto of Lourdes in the Vatican Gardens, with the support of Pope Leo XIII. Donations from around the world helped to make this project a reality, and the replica was finally inaugurated on March 28, 1905, by Pope St. Pius X. 

Every pontiff since its inauguration has prayed and held religious ceremonies in the Grotto of Lourdes in the Vatican Gardens. St. John Paul II and Benedict XVI, in particular, loved to spend time in this peaceful place of prayer and contemplation. 

In May 2020, Pope Francis presided over the Holy Rosary in the Grotto of Lourdes, invoking the end of the pandemic with all Catholics around the world. This event highlighted the significance of the grotto in the hearts of Catholics and its role in bringing people together in prayer during times of crisis. 

Under the image of Mary, a plaque displays the phrase by which the Virgin revealed to St. Bernadette that she was the Immaculate Conception. This phrase serves as a reminder of the special connection between the Grotto of Lourdes in the Vatican Gardens and the original grotto in Lourdes, France.

This story was first published by ACI Stampa, the Italian-language sister service of EWTN News.