Dickeyville Grotto and Shrine: A Unique Blend of Faith, Art, and Patriotism in Wisconsin

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On our weekend road trip from the Quad Cities to La Crosse, we passed through several small towns, each offering its own charm. But we kept driving. One stop, however, truly stood out, and we had to pull over and check it. You don’t see something like the Dickeyville Grotto and Shrine from the side of the road. Located at Holy Ghost Parish in Dickeyville, Wisconsin, this manmade grotto is a fascinating testament to devotion, creativity, and artistry.

Table of Contents

• The History of Dickeyville Grotto
• Composition: A Tapestry of Materials
• What You’ll Find at the Grotto
• Purpose of the Grotto
• Visiting the Dickeyville Grotto
• Final Thoughts
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The History of Dickeyville Grotto

The Dickeyville Grotto was built between 1925 and 1930 by Father Mathias Wernerus, the pastor of Holy Ghost Parish at the time. Fueled by his strong devotion to faith and patriotism, Father Wernerus envisioned and personally constructed this intricate shrine. He dedicated it to religious and patriotic themes, celebrating both Christianity and the United States.

Unlike traditional grottos, which often mimic natural caves, this grotto is entirely manmade. It serves as a sanctuary for prayer and reflection, drawing pilgrims and travelers alike for almost a century.

Composition: A Tapestry of Materials

One of the most striking aspects of the Dickeyville Grotto is its intricate design and what they used to build it. Honestly, from the side of the road, I thought there were bones. Thankfully that turned out not to be the case. The grotto and surrounding shrines are crafted from a variety of materials, including:

• Colored glass
• Gems and stones (both natural and semi-precious)
• Shells and coral
• Concrete
• Porcelain and ceramics

These materials come together in elaborate mosaics, creating vibrant religious and patriotic imagery. The surfaces glitter under sunlight, transforming the shrine into a kaleidoscope of colors and textures. Unfortunately, we visited on an overcast and dark afternoon in November, so the details are lost far away.

What You’ll Find at the Grotto

The grotto includes a cemetery, multiple shrines, and structures, each with its unique design and message:

The Grotto of the Blessed Virgin
A centerpiece of devotion, this grotto is adorned with bright stones and shells, creating a tranquil space for prayer.

Shrines to Christ the King and the Sacred Heart of Jesus
These shrines celebrate religious faith with intricate mosaics of Christ and sacred symbols.

Patriotic Memorials
The pamphlet I picked up explains that the grotto is dedicated to American ideals. Its shrines showcase designs of the U.S. flag, the Bald Eagle, tributes to American leaders, and a surprisingly large homage to Christopher Columbus—an unexpected nod to history’s “master of misdirection.” While Steven chatted with a man walking his dog, they shared a laugh about how rare Columbus shrines are in America. He’s mistaken, though—I’ve seen quite a few. After all, we even have a federal holiday for him!

Purpose of the Grotto

According to the plaque near the grotto’s entrance, the glittering monument serves as both a spiritual and cultural landmark. Father Wernerus designed it as a place for prayer and reflection, celebrating religious faith alongside national pride. Visitors often leave inspired, whether by its spiritual atmosphere or its artistic craftsmanship.

Visiting the Dickeyville Grotto

The Dickeyville Grotto is located on the grounds of Holy Ghost Parish. Here’s the address to help you plan your visit:

Holy Ghost Parish – Dickeyville Grotto
305 W Main St, Dickeyville, WI 53808

The grotto is open daily, and there’s no admission fee, though donations are appreciated to support its upkeep. The best time to visit is before and after high noon. Guided tours are also available, offering deeper insights into its history and design. Check out church’s website if you want more information.

Final Thoughts

It’s not always about the destination. Don’t pack your travel itineraries so full that you miss the gems along the way. The Dickeyville Grotto is more than just a roadside attraction—it’s a testament to the intersection of art, faith, and patriotism through the vision of one man. Yet, no religion is necessary to admire the dedication it took to create these intricate grottos and shrines. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an art lover, or simply passing through, this unique site deserves a stop and a moment of appreciation.

If you’re ever near Dickeyville, the bathrooms at the rear of the church are also open, which was a small mercy in itself. Thank you.

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