The Grotto – National Sanctuary of Our Sorrowful Mother
The National Sanctuary of Our Sorrowful Mother is an exclusive Catholic spiritual sanctuary and outdoor shrine located on the east rim of the Columbia River in Portland, Oregon, just south of the Madison River, in South Portland. Built in 1924, it covers 62 acres of beautiful terrain, perched at either the base of or over, a steep 110-foot cliff. It is known for its natural beauty, as well as its rich symbolism and religious significance. In fact, many visitors and residents have been drawn to the grotto due to its unique blend of religious mysticism, scenic beauty, and the rich history that it holds.
The Grotto – National Sanctuary of Our Saviour in Our Lord’s Servitude – is a beautiful Catholic outdoor shrine and garden located in the Madison south section of Portland Oregon, US. Constructed in 1924 by the Society of St. Pius X in their capacity as Roman Catholic Church authorities, the Sanctuary covers over 62 acres (20 ha) and is situated on top of a 110 ft (32 m) high cliff. The original site was originally constructed in a large cave under the Willamette River. The current garden, which is named after the Garden of Eden in classical mythology, was built by Fr. James H. Murphy during his first visit to Oregon. The two gardens, which are linked to one another by an underground network of walkways and bridges, were designed with three main focuses in mind: to honor our Lady of Guadalupe, to celebrate Our Lord’s Servitude, and to pray for our Lady’s intercession.
The grotto was originally created as a place to pray for the coming of St. Lucia, who was believed to be the patron saint of the Columbia River area. The grotto was also thought to contain the bodies of Lucia’s last two lovers. Today, visitors can enjoy the sights and sounds of the grotto as well as the rich history of the people who once called it home.
The grotto was built around the same time as the nearby Mount Hood, which provided a natural barrier to the river. This natural feature served as a barrier that separated the two sources of the river. Over the years, the river had built up a strong current that would eventually cause the water to flood into the grotto. Because of this, people soon began building a wooden palisade along the river edge, which kept the water from flooding into the grotto.
Over time, this palisade has become the focal point of the grotto. Visitors often stop to pray in the grotto while viewing the colorful scenery that surrounds them. While at the grotto, visitors are also given the opportunity to meditate while standing under the stars and watching the beautiful night sky above. Also, the grotto serves as a great place for the occasional picnic and outdoor barbeque. During the summer months, it is a popular place to hold outdoor church services.
Located just south of the Portland Oregon/Washington border, the grotto serves as a spiritually and physically rich spiritual sanctuary and place of worship for those who have a deep desire to receive God’s help in their lives. It is also a place where visitors can get away from it all and relax and enjoy nature.
No matter your age, gender, ethnicity or religious preference, visiting this spiritual sanctuary is one of the best ways to spend some time with your family and reflect on life, nature and the meaning of each moment. When you visit, be sure to stop by the grotto for a visit!