The Little-Known Church Hiding In Wisconsin That Is An Absolute Work Of Art

Hiding in Dickeyville, Wisconsin is one of the most stunning churches in the Midwest. The Dickeyville Grotto is a shrine at the Holy Ghost Church is unlike anything else you’ve ever seen. Read on to learn more about this glittering church and the unique story behind it.

The Dickeyville Grotto is a series of colorful shrines at the intersection of U.S. Highway 151 and Highway 35 in Grant County.

This magnificent structure is made up of concrete encrusted with shells, glass, gems, geodes, fossils, tiles, and stones.

It was built by Father Mathius Wernerus between 1920 and 1930. Wernerus was perhaps inspired by the Grotto of the Redemption in Iowa.

The grotto is gorgeous from a distance, but it’s hard not to be in total awe when you get up close.

The stunningly detailed patterns and images were all created by hand.

Though most of the components of the grotto celebrate Christianity, another is a Patriotism Shrine that depicts Columbus, Washington, and Lincoln.

Father Wernerus believed that the grotto was destined to be the most important Christian pilgrimage destination in the country.

Despite his lofty hopes, the grotto is still a peaceful place for reflection and rarely overrun by sightseers.

The Dickeyville Grotto and Holy Ghost Church are located at West Main Street, Dickeyville. Call (608) 568-3119 to make sure that the grotto is open before you stop by to visit.