The Lourdes Grotto in Heide, a village belonging to the municipality of Kalmthout, holds a special place within a former monastery complex. The grotto is located next to the church building in an area known as a place of silence. Here, people can be present in quiet contemplation, alone or together, to collect their thoughts, pray, or enjoy the beauty of their surroundings.
The Lourdes grotto is built of ferruginous sandstone in 1937 and consecrated on 23 May of that year by Etienne Carton de Wiart (1898-1948), auxiliary bishop and vicar general of the Archdiocese of Mechelen-Brussels (1934-1945), later Bishop of Tournai (1945-1948). The grotto was renovated in 2022. Candles can be lit in the large niche of the Lourdes grotto. The connection to the former mission house is made by images of some animals. To the left of the Lourdes grotto is a dry spring with the words “drink and wash yourself at the spring”. Benches are placed in front of the grotto and a garden has been laid out.
The grounds with the Lourdes grotto and also a memorial monument give a well-maintained impression.
Beside the church and the grotto is a mission house, founded in 1904. It began with a small church and a monastery built by French Benedictines, followed by Flemish Benedictines, and in 1928, Benedictine Sisters. In 1932, missionaries from Steyl moved in. Now, the monastery buildings accommodate Kon-TiKi, a centre for people with motor and/or intellectual disabilities.
Opposite the church, on the other side of the road, stands a large, white statue of Mary and Child.
The Lourdes Grotto, which is located on walking and cycling routes, is well worth a visit.
Address: Missiehuislei 44, 2920 Heide – Kalmthout.
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