The Lourdes Apparitions refer to a series of visions experienced by a young girl named Bernadette Soubirous in 1858 in Lourdes, France. During these apparitions, Bernadette reported seeing a lady, later identified as the Virgin Mary, who communicated messages of prayer and penance. The site has since become a major pilgrimage destination for Catholics. The first apparition occurred on February 11, 1858, and continued for several months, with a total of 18 appearances. The location of the apparitions, a grotto near the Gave de Pau river, is now home to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes, which attracts millions of visitors each year seeking healing and spiritual solace.