The Madonna and Child of Arcachon washed up by the waves

The year 2019 marked the 500th anniversary of the discovery of the statue of the Madonna and Child of Arcachon (Gironde, France), in 1519. Here is the beautiful story about the shrine.

Our Lady of Arcachon Shrine was built by the Franciscan Brother Thomas Illyricus. This good monk was born in Illyria (present-day Albania) on the Adriatic coast, hence his name of Illyricus. He traveled to France where, from 1516 to 1522, he made apostolic tours, preaching with fiery ardor and lively eloquence. In order to rest from his labors and trials, he retired for several years to live as a hermit in the forest of La Teste (southwestern France).

One day when he was at the seaside, he saw two ships caught in a furious storm and about to capsize and sink beneath the waves. The pious monk fell on his knees, traced the sign of the cross in the sand, and invoked God for all those unfortunate sailors.

His prayer was answered, the sea became calmer, and the two ships were able to return safely out to the open sea. The servant of God was still on the shore, blessing heaven for the grace obtained, when he saw a statue of the Madonna and Child at his feet, washed up by the waves. Brother Thomas took it as a gift from heaven and built a modest wooden chapel for her. He placed the statue inside, with respect and love. The same statue of the Madonna and Child is still venerated there today.

Our Lady of Arcachon Shrine became the site of the future city of Arcachon. On January 16, 1624, Thomas Illyricus’ chapel was destroyed by a storm. A second chapel got buried in the sand in 1721. Finally, a third one was built in 1722. This is the current chapel, called "The Chapel of the Sailors," where pilgrims flocked and the city of Arcachon arose. 

Adapted from: Bordeaux