Well, a companion. Across the street stands the Grotto of the Sorrowful Mother. It’s a massive concrete weeping wall with life-sized statues. It’s dark and moody compared to the pink one. That’s intentional.
Father Dobberstein built it to show the contrast between joy and sorrow. It’s basically a mood ring made of concrete.
Local Quirks
- Admission is free. They only ask for a donation. There’s a suggested amount taped to a little box. No pressure.
- The gift shop sells jelly beans. Not fancy ones. Just ordinary beans. Why? Because they’re cheap and colorful. It’s pure Iowa logic.
- You’ll hear calm organ music playing from hidden speakers. It adds to the surreal vibe. You half expect a choir of pelicans to show up.
History of The Shrine of the Grotto of the Redemption | West Bend
