There Is A Unique Man-Made Wonder Hiding In This Small Town Near Cleveland
By Nikki Rhoades|Published November 28, 2023
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Nikki Rhoades
Author
Nikki is a lifelong Ohioan with a love for literature. She holds a Bachelor's Degree from the University of Akron and has enjoyed publishing her written work since 2007. She has a love of travel and does so frequently, though she believes that home is where the heart is — she continues to work in and around Cleveland as a digital content specialist to this day, working on everything from commercial scripts and social media posts to grassroots marketing initiatives.
Whether or not you personally practice a religion, it’s no secret that religious sites in Ohio hide some of the most remarkable architecture in the region. Many are listed on the National Register of Historic Places, but others are historic gems that are often overlooked. Today, we’re going to take a virtual visit to a unique religious site in Northwestern Ohio. This man-made hiking trail near Cleveland is a true treat to visit, as it’s only about an hour away and it’s full of unique grottos and stunning art. Lace up your hiking shoes and get ready to spend some quality time outdoors, because this beautifully captivating spot belongs at the top of your local bucket list.
Bellevue, Ohio isn't Narnia, but this one local destination might make you think you stumbled into a magical realm.
Bellevue is about an hour away from Cleveland, and it's a delightful road trip destination. With less than 9,000 residents, this is truly a cool and quaint spot to visit. As you travel through town, you'll also touch Erie, Huron, Seneca, and Sandusky counties... this city stretches into them all!
This beautiful spot is the Sorrowful Mother Shrine, a place where religious art and nature coexist.
This spot was built originally as a place of pilgrimage, and it's plain to see why. The very beauty of this landscape is moving! There are two chapels on site, but there's even more to explore around this man-made hiking trail near Cleveland.
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In total, there are 40 gorgeous grottos waiting for you to explore.
Whether you're personally religious and seeking a site of prayer or just someone who appreciates pure beauty, you're going to love this spot. It's free to visit, and it's an amazing spot for meditation and quiet contemplation. Don't be surprised if you spot turkey or deer during your visit!
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There's also a great deal of history here, if that's something you're interested in.
A small chapel was originally built here in 1850, making it one of the oldest pilgrimage sites dedicated to the Blessed Mother in the Midwest. While the original chapel burned down in 1912, it was rebuilt and opened to the public again in 1914.
With 120 acres to explore, these grounds are truly like a park! You'll love getting your steps in, but be prepared to sit and admire, because many of these grottos are downright humbling.
And there's a surprise waiting around every corner.
Truly, words can't describe the beauty of this place. It looks like something you might find in the Old World, but it's hidden just an hour away from Cleveland! Open-air grottos and gardens are sure to enchant you.
Each grotto has a dedicated theme, whether it honors a saint or an aspect of the Blessed Virgin’s life. Remember that this is a site of pilgrimage for many, so be sure to respect other visitors if they take a moment to pray.
You can also get a sneak peek of their chapels, too, but I personally believe the most heavenly experience here can be had in its beautiful grounds.
Filled to the brim with religious art, this man-made space amazingly combines with nature in a delightfully holistic way. They say this site will refresh the body, mind and soul, and personal and group pilgrimages are offered year-round.
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This gorgeous site near Cleveland is one of the most unique destinations in Ohio.
You'll find the shrine and walking trails near 4106 OH-269, Bellevue, OH, 44811.
This man-made hiking trail near Cleveland is truly unique, and there’s nothing else quite like it. With circa 40 grottos to sit at, it’s no wonder people have been making pilgrimages here since 1850.
While you’re in the area, consider learning about Northwest Ohio’s famous blue holes. There’s one about half an hour north of this pretty site!
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