Midi-Pyrénées

Holy Communion for the sick at Lourdes, in the Midi-Pyrénées region of France. Famous for its holy waters and reported appearances of the Virgin Mary, Lourdes is a site of pilgrimage for the sick and infirm from all over the world. Those seeking divine healing bathe and attend communion.

Region of southwest France, comprising the départements of Ariège, Aveyron, Haute-Garonne, Gers, Lot, Hautes-Pyrénées, Tarn, and Tarn-et-Garonne; the capital is Toulouse; area 45,348 sq km/17,509 sq mi; population (1999 est) 2,551,700. The region includes several spa towns (including Lourdes), winter resorts, and prehistoric caves. It produces fruit, wine, and livestock, and industries include aerospace. There are two large universities. Other notable towns include Montauban, Cahors, and Rodez.

History