Vasse - Lourdes Grotto

The Lourdes grotto is located in a former monastery garden. The monastery, named Sancta Maria, was established in 1931. Sisters from the Congregation of Daughters of Our Lady from Nijmegen lived and worked here. The sisters provided education for young children and girls until 1974. Later, the monastery complex was repurposed into a conference and training centre. The Lourdes grotto was likely built around 1935.

The Lourdes grotto is located at the back of the cemetery grounds. Next to the grotto is a wall with urns. Candles cannot be lit at the grotto. The chairs placed inside the grotto are inviting. The Lourdes grotto is well-maintained and beautifully laid out.

The Lourdes grotto in Vasse is located behind the church, at the back of the graveyard, opposite the herb garden (’t Kruudnhôfke).

Near the Lourdes Grotto stands the church dedicated to Saints Joseph and Pancratius, built between 1861 and 1865. The architect of the church was Johannes Gerardus Josephus van Roosmalen (1813-1893). The tower, built between 1870 and 1871, was designed by architect Hendricus Johannes Wennekers (1827-1900). Within the church are unique statues of Our Lady, including a large statue of Mary crafted by the Van Bokhoven and Jonkers studio from ‘s-Hertogenbosch. This studio was active from 1885 to 1934, founded by Michiel van Bokhoven (1852-1929), who was later joined by Hendricus/Henri Jonkers (1877-1963). A special Marian chapel can also be visited in the church. The church has limited opening hours.

In 2003, four Mary chapels were erected in the rural area of Vasse, funded by volunteers. The chapels are located at Beekzijde, Hooidijk, Manderveenseweg, and Plasdijk. The Stichting Mariakapellen Vasse (Vasse Mary Chapels Foundation) ensures, with the help of volunteers, the maintenance of these chapels.

Vasse is part of the municipality of Tubbergen and is located in the province of Overijssel.

Church address: Denekamperweg 205, 7661RK Vasse.

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