Basilica of Marienthal

Located in Alsace, just 25 km from Strasbourg, the Basilica of Marienthal is a premier destination for spiritual retreat and Christian pilgrimage. Since the 13th century, this sanctuary has welcomed visitors seeking silence,prayer, and inner renewal, in a peaceful setting at the edge of the forest.

A Marian sanctuary steeped in history in Alsace

Since 1250, Marienthal has been a living place of faith. Originally,Albert de Haguenau left his noble life to answer the call of Christ and withdraw as a hermit. A religious community quickly grew up around him.

For nearly three centuries, monks from the Guillelmite convent maintained a prayerful presence. Thanks to the rise of printing, the sanctuary's reputation spread widely, drawing many pilgrims who came to entrust their intentions to the Virgin Mary.

In the 18th century, Queen Marie Leszczynska showed a deep attachment to the sanctuary, contributing to its influence. Despite the losses suffered during the French Revolution, Marienthal remained a major spiritual site.

In 1892, Pope Leo XIII elevated the church to a minor basilica. To this day, this sanctuary in Alsace continues to draw those who wish to make a Christian retreat or take a spiritual break.

A structured and accessible life of prayer

Life at the sanctuary is organized around daily prayer, open to all guests:

• Mass: celebrated every day, it forms the heart of the spiritual life of the place.
• Eucharistic adoration: offered several times a week, it invites a time of deep silence before the Blessed Sacrament.
• Confession: regular sessions allow this sacrament to be received in an atmosphere of peace.
• The rosary and offices: times of Marian prayer mark the rhythm of each day.

A community at the service of pilgrims

The sanctuary is led by a team of dedicated priests and lay people, committed to hospitality and spiritual guidance.

Their mission is to help each person advance on their journey of faith, in a spirit of simplicity and fraternity.

Living a spiritual retreat at Marienthal

The sanctuary of Marienthal welcomes anyone wishing to make a spiritual retreat in Alsace, whether for a few hours or several days.

Personalized accompaniment is offered:

• meeting with a priest
• time for listening and discernment
• participation in liturgical life

Throughout the year, Marienthal offers:

• days of recollection
• guided spiritual retreats
• thematic sessions

These times allow participants to deepen their faith, gain perspective, and live a concrete spiritual experience.

An ideal setting for renewal

Set in a privileged natural environment, the sanctuary of Marienthal offers a setting conducive to calm and inner reflection:

• a large garden suited to meditation
• a forest nearby for walking
• a peaceful atmosphere far from the hustle and bustle

This setting encourages genuine disconnection and spiritual recentering.

Accommodation and welcome for retreatants

The sanctuary's guest house offers:

• 40 rooms with private bathrooms
• individual, family, or group stays
• short or extended stays available

Meals are served in a convivial atmosphere, with simple and carefully prepared cuisine.

Getting to the sanctuary of Marienthal

The sanctuary is located:

• in Alsace (Grand Est)
• 10 minutes from Haguenau
• 30 minutes from Strasbourg

A great opportunity to discover this beautiful region!

It is accessible by train (Marienthal station), by car, and even by plane (Strasbourg-Entzheim airport).

A site on the Camino de Santiago

The sanctuary lies along a route of the Camino de Santiago. It makes an ideal stop for pilgrims seeking rest and prayer.