Pilgrimage to the Shrine of the Grotto of the Redemption

My daughter and I took a road trip to visit the breathtaking Shrine of the Grotto of the Redemption in West Bend, Iowa—often called the “Eighth Wonder of the World.” This hidden gem is a stunning tribute to faith, perseverance, and God’s glory.

Walking through the Grotto, we encountered biblical scenes brought to life with rare stones and precious gems, from the Nativity and Calvary to the Resurrection. The beauty and peace of this place stirred our hearts in a profound way.

“Come and see the works of God; His awesome deeds for mankind.” — Psalm 66:5

If you’re looking for a place to pray, reflect, and experience God’s presence, this pilgrimage is worth every mile. In this article, I share our experience and insights about this incredible place of faith and beauty.

The History of the Shrine of the Grotto

The Shrine of the Grotto of the Redemption is the life’s work of Father Paul Matthias Dobberstein, a German-born priest who dedicated over 40 years to constructing this magnificent tribute to Our Lord. In 1898, while battling pneumonia, he promised the Blessed Virgin Mary that if he recovered, he would build a shrine in her honor. After regaining his health, he began collecting stones, minerals, and gems, laying the foundation for what would become the largest man-made grotto in the world:

The Grotto is a mosaic of precious stones and minerals from all over the world. It visually narrates the story of salvation, from the fall of Adam and Eve to the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Each section of the shrine invites pilgrims to meditate on the mysteries of faith and the boundless mercy of God.

Exploring the Areas of the Grotto

The Shrine of the Grotto of the Redemption in West Bend, Iowa, comprises several distinct areas, each depicting significant biblical events and themes.

I’ve included some of the photos we took along with an overview of these areas:

The Trinity Grotto

Initiated by Father Dobberstein in 1912, this grotto honors the Holy Trinity—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Constructed over five years, it features calcite stones from South Dakota’s Black Hills. Father Dobberstein built this grotto in gratitude to the Blessed Virgin Mary for his recovery from pneumonia.

St. Michael the Archangel

This area symbolizes the triumph of good over evil. A statue of St. Michael stands victorious over a defeated devil, illustrating the celestial battle described in Revelation 12:7-12.

Garden of Eden or “Paradise Lost”

Depicting Adam and Eve’s expulsion from Eden, this grotto shows the serpent coiled around a tree, representing the deception leading to humanity’s fall. A plaque of the Immaculate Conception signifies God’s promise of a Redeemer. Here Adam is shown looking at Eve after the fall:

The Ten Commandments

Moses presents the Ten Commandments in this grotto. An inlaid question mark on the ground signifies a young man’s inquiry to Jesus about attaining eternal life, to which Jesus responds, “If thou wilt enter into life—keep the commandments.” The grotto features stalactites and rosette rock clusters adorning the walls.

The Stable in Bethlehem

Constructed with 65 tons of petrified wood from Montana and the Dakotas, this grotto portrays the Nativity scene with Mary, Joseph, and the infant Jesus. Father Greving built it in 1956, with the statues added in the early 1970s.

The Grotto of Nazareth

A serene depiction of Jesus’ early life, this area allows pilgrims to reflect on the Holy Family’s simplicity, obedience, and deep faith. I especially love this beautiful photo of Mary standing in the corner across the room from Joseph, that dazzles with brilliant light. Interestingly, this reflection was not visible to my eyes at the time. It was only after I got home and looked through my pictures that I discovered it:

Christ’s Sermon on the Mount

This section brings to life Jesus’ powerful teachings on love, humility, and righteousness, encouraging visitors to live out the Beatitudes in their own lives.

The Garden of Gethsemane

A solemn representation of Jesus’ agony before His Passion, this grotto invites pilgrims to meditate on Christ’s suffering and surrender to the Father’s will.

The Stations of the Cross

A moving journey through Christ’s Passion, these stations allow pilgrims to walk alongside Jesus in His suffering, reflecting on the immense love He poured out for humanity.

Calvary

The most solemn section of the Grotto, Calvary depicts Jesus’ crucifixion. The cross stands as a powerful reminder of His sacrifice and the ultimate act of redemption.

The Entombment of Jesus

This area portrays Christ’s burial, inviting deep reflection on the mystery of His death and the sorrow of His followers.

The Resurrection

The culmination of salvation history, this grotto celebrates Christ’s victory over sin and death. The radiant depiction of the empty tomb fills the heart with hope and the promise of eternal life.

The Christmas Chapel

One of the most breathtaking areas, the Christmas Chapel, is located within Saints Peter & Paul Catholic Church and built in 1927. This chapel beautifully portrays the Nativity of Jesus, drawing you into the wonder of Christ’s birth. Behind the manger, a stunning 300-pound Brazilian amethyst adds a radiant glow to the sacred scene. Visitors can press a button on the right wall to listen to a recorded presentation about the chapel’s history and significance.

Each section of the Grotto offers visitors a unique opportunity to reflect on pivotal moments of Christian faith, inviting contemplation and spiritual connection.

Why Make a Pilgrimage to the Grotto?

Traveling to the Grotto of the Redemption allows pilgrims to step away from daily distractions and focus on prayer, reflection, and renewal. The Grotto is not merely a work of art; it is a place where God speaks to the heart, calling the faithful to deeper conversion and trust in His divine plan.

1. Encounter God’s Presence

Walking through the Grotto, visitors are surrounded by biblical scenes crafted with exquisite detail. The peaceful atmosphere invites silence and contemplation. Many who visit describe feeling an overwhelming sense of God’s presence, as if stepping into a sacred space beyond time.

2. A Place for Prayer and Healing

The Grotto is a place of deep prayer. Many pilgrims come seeking spiritual healing, interceding for loved ones, or offering thanksgiving for God’s blessings. Confession and Mass are often available, providing an opportunity for sacramental grace. The shrine’s serene setting fosters a profound connection with Our Lord, making it an ideal place to surrender burdens and receive His peace.

3. Strengthen Your Faith Through Beauty

Beauty has the power to lift the soul to God, and the Grotto is a living example of this truth. The shimmering stones, the masterful architecture, and the carefully arranged biblical scenes draw hearts closer to the divine. It reminds us that everything created, whether in nature or by human hands, can glorify God.

How to Prepare for Your Pilgrimage

A pilgrimage requires spiritual and practical preparation. Here are some ways to prepare:

1. Pray Before You Go

Ask the Holy Spirit to guide your pilgrimage. Offer the journey for a specific intention, whether for personal healing, discernment, or in thanksgiving.

Consider praying the Pilgrim’s Prayer through Mary. This ancient pilgrim prayer (origin unknown) has been used by pilgrims for decades to invite Mary, our Mother, with us in pilgrimage:

O Virgin Mary, Help of Christians, we dedicate ourselves to your service.
We concentrate our minds, hearts, and bodies and promise to work always
for the glory of God and the salvation of man.
Protect the young and help the aged, save sinners and console the dying.
You are our hope, Mary, Mother of Mercy and Gate of Heaven.
Pray to your Son for us so that we may be filled with selfless charity and deep faith.
Ask Jesus for those things which we cannot obtain through our own actions
and help us in this our present necessity.
May we always see the Will of the Father of our lives.
We ask you this, sweet Spouse of the Spirit,
so that we may come to your Son in grace. Amen

2. Approach with a Pilgrim’s Heart

Approach the journey with humility, patience, and openness to God’s will. Be ready to embrace silence, fasting, and extra prayers during your visit.

3. Bring the Right Essentials

Pack practical items like comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, a Rosary, a Bible, and a journal to record spiritual insights. Bringing holy water bottles or religious items to be blessed can make the experience even more meaningful.

What to Do at the Grotto

When you arrive, take time to soak in the beauty and sacredness of the place. Here are a few recommended activities:

• Attend Mass and Confession: Begin your pilgrimage with the sacraments at Ss Peter and Paul church. Check the schedule as they do not have service every day.
• Pray the Rosary: Meditate on the life of Christ while walking through the Grotto.
• Reflect on the Stations of the Cross: Walk the Stations of Christ’s Passion and marvel at the intricate detail of each one.
• Light a Candle: Offer prayers for loved ones by lighting a candle while inside the church.
• Spend Time in Silence: Sit and listen for God’s voice in the quiet of the beautiful surroundings.

Testimonies from Visitors

Many visitors leave the Grotto profoundly touched by the experience. Some find healing from past wounds, others receive clarity in their vocation, and many encounter an indescribable peace. Pilgrims often return, drawn by the beauty and the presence of God they experienced on their first visit.

One visitor shared, “Walking through the Grotto, I felt as though heaven touched earth. The beauty and the depth of faith poured into this place stirred my soul in a way I never expected.”

Carrying the Pilgrimage Home

The end of a pilgrimage is not the end of the journey. The lessons learned and graces received should continue to bear fruit. Take time to reflect on how God spoke to you and how you can deepen your faith at home. Keep the spirit of pilgrimage alive by fostering a life of prayer, regular reception of the sacraments, and acts of charity.

Plan Your Pilgrimage

The Shrine of the Grotto of the Redemption is open year-round and welcomes pilgrims from all walks of life. Whether you visit alone, with family, or as part of a parish group, this journey will leave a lasting imprint on your soul. More than just a stunning landmark, the Grotto is a place where faith comes alive.

As you embark on your pilgrimage to the Grotto of West Bend, open your heart to God’s grace. He is waiting to meet you there, ready to renew your spirit and draw you closer to His infinite love.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Grotto

Is the Grotto a Catholic site?

The Shrine of the Grotto of the Redemption is a Catholic site, built as an expression of faith and devotion to Christ. While it welcomes visitors of all backgrounds, its artistic and theological themes are deeply rooted in Catholic tradition.

What materials were used to build the Grotto?

The Grotto is made of rare stones, minerals, and precious gems from around the world. These include quartz, amethyst, petrified wood, and jasper, meticulously arranged to illustrate biblical stories.

Can visitors attend Mass or Confession at the Grotto?

Mass is celebrated at Ss. Peter and Paul Church, located next door to the Grotto. Confession opportunities are also available, making it an ideal place for spiritual renewal. Check the schedule or call beforehand to be sure of times.

How long does it take to explore the Grotto?

Most visitors spend about one to two hours exploring the Grotto, but those who take time for prayer, reflection, and attending Mass may stay longer.

Overview of The Grotto of the Redemption

• Location: 208 1st Avenue NW, West Bend, Iowa
• Description: A complex of nine grottos built by Father Paul Dobberstein, who collected gemstones and petrified wood and worked on the grotto from 1912-1954.
• Features:
  • Each grotto depicts a scene from the life of Christ.
  • Known as the “Eighth Wonder of the World”.
  • Featured in Disney’s “The Straight Story” (affiliate).
  • Placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2001. 
• Website: The Shrine of the Grotto of the Redemption

Resources:

• The Shrine of the Grotto of the Redemption: Plan Your Visit