Kentucky's Rock Garden And Grotto, The Grotto and Garden of Our Lady of Lourdes Is A Work Of Art
By Andrea Limke|Published January 08, 2021
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Andrea Limke
Author
A Cincinnati native who has lived in Kentucky for over 10 years, Andrea's heart belongs both in the Queen City and the Bluegrass State. After earning an education degree and working in that field for a number of years, Andrea began to pursue her passion for writing over 6 years ago. Since then she has written for a number of print and online publications, as well as published a children's book.
There are pieces of history scattered all over Kentucky, but it’s not every day you find one adjacent to an apartment complex. In the St. Joseph neighborhood of Louisville sits a horseshoe-shaped brick fence and inside is something very surprising. A rock garden and grotto are artfully placed here and it comes with a fascinating story. The Grotto and Garden of Our Lady of Lourdes isn’t particularly flashy or even noticeable, but if you’re in the area, it’s definitely worth a stop to experience this serene and historic site in Kentucky.
Located between Bradley Avenue and Preston Street, next to an apartment complex, is The Grotto and the Garden of Our Lady of Lourdes.
Just driving past, you would definitely miss it and never know there's a historical site sitting in this patch of grass. But this garden has been around for almost 100 years and remains a serene and unique place to visit.
Near this rock garden and grotto in Kentucky is a sign that gives some background on the space.
Dedicated in 1927, it was named a local and state historical landmark in 2001. And it hasn't always been next to an apartment complex. Its original location makes quite a bit more sense.
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This land was once the site of the St. Joseph Infirmary.
After the infirmary was relocated here from a location downtown, the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth built this grotto as a place for prayer and reflection.
The garden walls and structures are impressive and this section is especially lovely. The garden was designed after a similar place in France, where a woman is said to have seen apparitions of the Virgin Mary.
Unfortunately, vandalism has been known to happen to the garden, so please be very respectful when you visit.
If you're in the area and want a quiet place to reflect, this is a welcoming option. And if you can visit on a warm sunny day in late spring, summer, or fall, you'll be treated to a truly lovely garden.
The garden also holds dedications and tributes to those who have been involved in its upkeep.
A lot of time and love have gone into this historical landmark over the years and while it may not be a tourist attraction, it is a special place in the state of Kentucky.
It’s rare to find a rock garden and grotto in Kentucky and even more rare to find a historical site right next to an apartment complex. But this neighborhood has a story and a part of that past is The Grotto and the Garden of Our Lady of Lourdes, a fascinating site hidden in a Kentucky neighborhood. Have you visited this historic garden? Do you know of other similar places? Let us know about them in the comments!
The Grotto and the Garden of Our Lady of Lourdes is located between Bradley Avenue and Preston Street, adjacent to Presidents Boulevard in Louisville.
For another type of grotto, check out this beautiful hidden gem that’s only able to be reached by water.
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