Key Facts

• Lourdes has had over 70 medical miracles recognized by Catholic bishops since 1868.
• About 4 million people visit Lourdes each year, many seeking healing.
• The Lourdes Office of Medical Observations investigates healing claims with doctors and researchers.
• To be recognized as a miracle, a cure must be sudden, complete, lasting, and without medical explanation.
• As of 2022, Dr. Alessandro de Franciscis led the medical office, overseeing investigations until 2026.
• Skeptics question early records, but recent investigations use strict and modern medical standards.
• Independent researchers have found the Lourdes process credible and thorough.
• Four people with recognized miracles remain healthy decades after their cures.