Its easy to be the chapel with the most unforgettable setting in Portland when located in a 62-acre botanical garden. Plush evergreen forest collides with beautifully manicured gardens at this Catholic sanctuary and meditation spot that is a sight to behold. Stroll along the walkways and lose yourself to the beauty hiding in plain sight right off of 82nd Avenue.
Walking around the Grotto's trails is a great way to experience the sanctuary's amazing grounds.
You will find artwork, sculptures and even the Stations of the Cross in these plush woods that are perfect for a bit of quiet meditation.
The Chapel of Mary is large and stately, and is home to daily mass and choral celebrations throughout the year.
But perhaps the most visually stunning part of the Grotto is its centerpiece shrine, carved into a 110-foot basalt cliff. In the center of the shrine, a replica of Michelangelo’s Pietà is featured.
Carved in 1923, the Grotto has stood for nearly 100 years as a place of reflection and peace for people from all different religions.
During the summer, weekly masses are said outside at the shrine. Attending an outdoor mass here in this amazing setting is a special treat.
Various features around the grounds make you want to linger and explore.
In fall the colors at the Grotto are spectacular. And in winter, the Grotto puts on an amazing light display and holds a large choral festival that is perfect to put you in the holiday spirit.
The Grotto is located at 8840 NE Skidmore and is open daily. While it is free to tour the lower grounds, to visit the upper level garden, adults are $6 and children, ages 6 to 12, are $3.
What do you think of this charming chapel in Portland?
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