Grotto of Redemption

After being accused of pessimism (after all, a move to Iowa can also be seen as an "adventure" of sorts!) I decided to look into the local sites. Did you know that the "Eighth Wonder of the World" is located right in the rural town of West Bend, Iowa? That's right on par with Machu Picchu, The Great Wall of China, and Angkor Wat in Cambodia (locations also claimed as the "8th Wonder" - surely by those who had never been to Iowa!) You certainly don't get this kind of religious devotion in Massachusetts:

The Grotto is a composite of nine separate Grottos, each portraying a scene in the life of Christ. The Grotto includes the largest collection of precious stones and gems found anywhere in one location. The artistry has to be seen to be appreciated, plus the message it gives is beyond words. It is frequently considered as the "Eighth Wonder of the World." The Grotto has been placed on the National Register of Historical Places in 2001. The Iowan Magazine has described the Grotto as a "Miracle in Stone".

My boyfriend wanted to be sure we would not have to go to West Bend to see the infamous "grotto." I assured him that I had no interest...

SUCH a lie. I'm totally checking this place out!

~flutterbyblue

Quote lifted from www.westbendgrotto.com