The Grotto of the Redemption

Wow.

The Grotto of the Redemption in West Bend, Iowa is... big. And covered in stones of varying shapes, sizes, colors, etc. It really can not be described or captured in photos... it is something that must just be experienced.

There are shrines depicting various aspects of the life of Christ, including the above corridor with the stations of the cross, and devotional shrines to the Virgin Mary and other saints. Every inch is covered in shells, coral, and stones of varying brilliance from basic brown rocks like you'd find in your driveway to agates, turquoise, and quartz.

It is a massive structure with wandering paths, staircases, and cathedral-like arched rooms around every corner. The above is a composite photo of one of the huge Marian shrines...

It was a ridiculously long drive on tiny little Iowa roads to get there, but it was worth it. Cecelia and Vivian had a blast running around discovering all of the little coves and whispering (think loud stage whisper), "MOM! Come here, you've got to see this!!" There was plenty to see and plenty of space to move around on the winding paths and staircases. The Groto Cafe was closed so we didn't get any snacks, but we got to stretch our legs and take in some wacky religious awesomeness. Definitely worth the detour.