Uikhoven – Lourdes Cave

The Limburg village of Uikhoven is a part of the municipality of Maasmechelen and is located on the west side of the river Maas.

The Lourdes Cave is located on the church square next to the church dedicated to Saint Nicholas. The initiative to build the cave came from Jozef Hendrik (Jef) Goossens (1875-1957), pastor (1915-1957). The large Lourdes Cave was built from stones from Maastricht lime kilns and pebbles from the river Maas.

The Lourdes Cave in Uikhoven is special because of its design and the large, white Christ statue with the Sacred Heart that stands on the cave. At the entrance to the cave, a plaque states the year 1921 and mentions Pastor Goossens. It also reads: “Mary as a mediator between people (Bernadette) and God (Sacred Heart)”.

The visionary Bernadette Soubirous is depicted kneeling in front of the cave with a candle in her hand. A spring, a bench, bushes and large boulders have also been placed in front of the Lourdes cave. A shrine has been built of stones in the lower part of the cave and a crucifix has been placed on it. Mary stands in the upper part of the cave with her hands together and her gaze directed to heaven.

In 2015-2016, the Lourdes Cave was restored by volunteers.

There are cycling and hiking opportunities in and around Uikhoven. Parking is available near the well-maintained cave.

Unfortunately, the fence is closed when visiting this cave and candles cannot be lit. A special Lourdes cave that is more than worth visiting.

Address: Schoorstraat, on the left of the Sint-Niklaaskerk at number 13 and on the right of house number 7.

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