Discover the “Eighth Wonder of the World” at the Shrine of the Grotto of the Redemption in Iowa

Did you know the Eighth Wonder of the World can be found in Central Iowa? In West Bend, the Shrine of the Grotto of the Redemption stands as what is believed to be the largest man-made grotto in the world — a collection of nine grottos that depict scenes from the life of Jesus Christ as well as a collection of petrifications and minerals.

With more than 100,000 visitors each year, a visit to the shrine takes on a different meaning to all who visit.

For some, it’s a profound religious experience and a place of pilgrimage. For others, it’s a curious tourist attraction. Still, for others, it’s a masterclass in architecture. There is no doubt however that the Grotto leaves an impression on everyone who visits.

A Shrine Built on a Promise

Construction of the Grotto by Father Paul Dobberstein began in 1912. At one time, Dobberstein had become ill and promised the Virgin Mary he would build a shrine to her if she helped him. Work on the Grotto continued year-round until 1954.

The Grotto of the Shrine of the Redemption is located at 208 1st NW in West Bend Iowa.

Virtual tours of the Grotto are available and in-person seasonal tours are offered daily from April through October.

Dobberstein, who designed several other grottos in the Midwest, used the knowledge he gained while constructing his first grotto — located in Wisconsin — to build the Grotto of the Shrine of the Redemption, setting stones and gems into concrete. All told the Grotto and all its features cover an area the size of a city block.

 For decades, the Grotto has stood tall in the Midwest as an architectural masterclass, characterized by intricately designed archways and domes, winding pathways that lead visitors past different grottos, water features, statues, mosaics, and other features that make the Grotto such a place of reverence.

At night, the Grotto is illuminated, creating a mystical atmosphere that enhances the spiritual experience for visitors. The gardens surrounding the Grotto add vibrant touches color and beauty to an already well-traveled and tranquil place. 

The Grotto reached the status of a religious shrine in 2015, a designation conferred upon it by the Bishop of Sioux City. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2001.

A “Miracle in Stone”

Over time, the Grotto has frequently been called the “Eighth Wonder of the World” and “miracle in stone.”

DID YOU KNOW: The Grotto has over four dozen seasonal campsites available for campers and tents for visitors planning on extended stays.

A grotto is typically defined as a small cave or a place where travelers can find shelter and comfort from the harsh realities of the world. In Christianity, a grotto is a place of prominent religious significance, and the imagery within a grotto is said to symbolize a journey of life — from birth through life to death to the afterlife.

The Grotto is actually made up of nine different grottos that depict the life of Jesus Christ including:

• The Grotto of the Nativity: Depicts the birth of Jesus Christ. It features a life-sized nativity scene with statues of the Holy Family, shepherds, and the Magi, all crafted with detailed artistry.
• The Grotto of the Holy Family: Showcases scenes from Jesus’ early life and emphasizes the sanctity of family life with statues of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph.
• The Grotto of the Ten Commandments: Illustrates the giving of the Ten Commandments to Moses on Mount Sinai. It is adorned with representations of the tablets inscribed with the commandments.
• The Grotto of the Sacred Heart: Symbolizes the divine love of Christ for humanity. It features a prominent statue of Jesus with a glowing heart.
• The Grotto of Gethsemane: Depicts Jesus’ agony in the Garden of Gethsemane before his arrest and evokes a sense of solemn reflection and prayer.
• The Grotto of the Resurrection: Celebrates Jesus’ resurrection and includes a representation of the empty tomb and a triumphant Christ figure.
• The Grotto of the Ascension: This grotto illustrates the ascension of Jesus into heaven, complete with celestial-themed decorations and ascending figures.
• The Grotto of the Immaculate Conception: Dedicated to the Virgin Mary, this grotto highlights the dogma of her Immaculate Conception with beautiful statues and intricate mosaics.
• The Grotto of the Assumption: This grotto depicts the Assumption of Mary into heaven, featuring statues of Mary being lifted by angels.

No matter your views on religion, if you love Jesus Christ, you will love The Grotto. It’s a wonderland of glory to the God who saves. The bonus is the setting of it all. The dedication and vision of the builder shows in every stone. Each comes from different states of the USA as well as around the world. You will regret it if you get even close to this place and not stop by. Enjoy!

– Emmit via Google

A Shrine That “Rocks”

The specialized skill of Father Dobberstein in building the Grotto over decades resulted in a shrine that’s also home to one of the world’s biggest collections of minerals and petrifications. Beyond its religious significance, the Grotto also captures the imagination of geologists and rockhounds alike.

Super cool to see! There were LOADS AND LOADS of fluorite, amethyst, quartzes, other crystals and petrified wood. It was all put together very uniquely and a joy to behold!

– Alissa via Google

Among the rocks and petrifications visitors can see are quartz, petrified wood, jasper, geode, drusy quartz, calcite, agate, and amethyst. Such a variety allows visitors of all ages to explore every nook and cranny of the Grotto to see the colorful rocks and gems that were used in its construction.

The Grotto is also home to the Grotto Museum, which includes an impressive collection of semiprecious and precious stones. Visitors can also see a collection of tools that Father Dobberstein used while he built the Grotto and watch a documentary video on the history of the Grotto.

Special Events at the Grotto

While the Grotto gets thousands of visitors each year due to its size and significance, the Grotto also hosts different events during the year that make it a must-stop destination.

Each June, Rock at the Grotto is held and features an afternoon mass, a festival, and a live auction along with good food and great company.

The Grotto also hosts A Day of Prayer and Reflection each September. Visitors are invited (for a fee) to tour the Grotto, hear three presentations for prayer and reflection, and have time for individual prayer and reflection. Visitors also have a chance to celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation and the Eucharistic Adoration.

Experience a Place Like No Other at The Shrine of the Grotto of the Redemption

Whether you’re devoutly religious, you appreciate unique architecture, or you love traveling, the Shrine of the Grotto of the Redemption is worth a visit in the Midwest. From its revered collection of grottos, to its unique architectural features, to its serene atmosphere, it promises a memorable experience for all who visit.