Our Lady of Altötting

The Shrine of Our Lady of Altötting, in Bavaria (Germany), Benedict XVI's favorite pilgrimage. The history of the pilgrimage, prayers and texts to Our Lady of All Graces.

"I am fortunate to have been born very close to Altötting. Therefore, the pilgrimages made with my parents and my brothers and sisters, in this place of graces, are among my youngest and most beautiful memories.

What impressed me the most then was of course the Holy Chapel with its mysterious darkness, the richly dressed Black Madonna surrounded by votive offerings, the silent prayer of the many pilgrims, and the ambulatory where people carry their cross in full view of everyone. (Benedict XVI)