Grotto’s are some of the most spectacular man-made structures. These intricate stone and rock structures are made to resemble natural cave formations and became quite popular in Italy and France during the mid-1600’s. When most people think of grotto’s religious scenes come to mind. Often, shrines devoted to saints or the Virgin Mary are erected for people to have a place of prayer and devotion that is surrounded by the serenity of nature.

You’ll find a stunning, peaceful grotto right here in the Show Me State. Tucked away into the rolling hills just outside of St. Louis is the The Black Madonna Shrine, and you’ve probably never visited anywhere in Missouri quite like it.

The Black Madonna Shrine and Grotto is located in the idyllic setting of rural Pacific, Missouri. The grotto was the life's work of Brother Bronislaus Luszcz, a Polish native, and he began clearing the land for this shrine in 1937.
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Each piece of this intricate shrine was constructed by hand and mostly by Brother Bronislaus. He modeled the shrine after the most popular shrine in his homeland, The Shrine of Our Lady of Czestochowa.
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Get up-close and personal with each piece at the shrine. You will be amazed by the stunning detail in each piece. This piece features green glass from bottles to let light into the structure.
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Most visitors take a self-guided tour of the shrine. However, the Franciscan Missionary Brothers host numerous tours throughout the year. Mass can also be celebrated on-site at 8:30 a.m. inside the Sacred Heart Chapel.
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The Nativity Grotto is the only natural grotto on the site but it has been enhanced with the striking, white statues of the nativity. It's simply stunning during the summer when the 300 acre Franciscan Mission site is alive with color.
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While admission to the site is free, charitable donations are greatly appreciated. The shrine is not supported by any parish or dioceses, thus donations are important to the preservation of this beautiful site.
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Regardless of your religious affiliation, this stunning site can be appreciated by everyone who visits. It's unlike anything you've ever seen and is certainly worth the trip!
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Visit the Black Madonna Shine and Grotto at 265 St. Joseph Hill Rd., Pacific, MO 63069. For more information, visit their website here.

Just off the beaten path, this map will help you find the shrine if you’re interested in visiting.

Have you been to the Black Madonna Shrine and Grotto? Tell us about it in the comments below!

Interested in other stunning religious sites in Missouri? Did you know you can stay at a Monastery in northern Missouri? Check it out here!

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