The Grotto Of The Redemption In Iowa Is The Coolest Thing You’ll Ever See For Free
Way out in West Bend, Iowa, an incredible work of art draws thousands of visitors each year. The Grotto of the Redemption is a remarkable work of art that’s 50 years in the making, and it’s the most amazing free attraction in Iowa. Plan a visit, because you’ve got to see it for yourself.
As soon as it comes into view, it's easy to see why the Grotto of the Redemption has been called the Eighth Wonder of the World.
The creator of the Grotto, Father Paul Dobberstein, began his work in began in 1912, and continued to build the shrine for 42 years. Today, it's considered the largest shrine in the world.
The original inspiration for the shrine was a promise Dobberstein made when he was sick, and prayed to the Virgin Mary for a recovery. After Dobberstein passed, his successor Father Greving, worked on the Grotto for another 50 years.
However, the Grotto is maintained by volunteers, and they accept donations. If you think the hours you spend exploring the grotto is worth a few dollars, your donation would be appreciated.
Over the year, an average of 100,000 people visit the shrine. Because of that, it's also one of the most popular tourist attractions in the Midwest!
This incredible treasure is on display, featuring $4.3 million worth of gems. The Grotto is the most valuable collection of gems and precious stones anywhere in the world.
Kim Magaraci graduated Rutgers University with a degree in Geography and has spent the last seven years as a freelance travel writer. Contact: kmagaraci@onlyinyourstate.com
