Ave Maria Grotto - Cullman (construction, live, trees)

[harry chickpea]

Visiting this place was on my to-do list since about 1982, simply as a check-off to be able to say I had seen it. Honestly, since some of the concrete and scrap constructions date back to the 1930s, I anticipated a decrepit, faded, and decaying "attraction" with minimal impact.

O.M.G. I was wrong. I went with my gf today, and other than a couple just leaving and one other couple that came in a little after us, we were the only ones there on what had to be the perfect day to see the place. Apparently, someone recently spent six months fixing subsidence and doing some repairs, and the effort shows. The only flaw I noticed was that many of the constructions once had water features, and the containment now no longer can hold that water so they are mostly dry.

We were there mid-afternoon, and the tall trees and sunlight were playing games. ON a number of occasions only a couple prominent statues or models were in full sun, while the rest were in shadow. I commented to my GF that if this were a movie, I would be complimenting the lighting director. It was that good.

I took loads of pictures and may upload a few in a few days, but you need to see the stuff in 3-D for any impact. See it soon while the weather is still somewhat cool and the azalea and hydrangea are still in bloom.

[Saskia Calico]

I am glad you started this thread. I visited the Ave Maria Grotto once, nearly 20 years ago, and absolutely loved it. I would love to visit it again one day.

[AU HSV]

One of Alabama’s hidden secrets in plain view

[writerwife]

It is a very nice, serene, place. And you don't have to be Catholic to enjoy it.

[FCEddie]

I have been twice in the 11 years we have lived here. Hoping to make it a 3rd time in the next year.