Portland | The Grotto: A Chapel in the Redwoods

Near the Portland airport, nestled within a towering redwood forest, lies a unique Catholic sanctuary known as The Sanctuary of our Sorrowful Mother. This sacred place is centered around a remarkable niche carved into a basalt cliff, which houses a statue depicting the Sorrowful Mother. 🌲 The traditional Gothic architecture, known for its soaring columns and solemn atmosphere, is reimagined here. Instead of man-made structures, the sanctuary leverages the natural grandeur of the towering basalt cliffs and redwood trees to create an awe-inspiring sense of reverence. Golden sunlight filters through the redwood canopy, casting a warm glow on the altar, reminiscent of the way light streams through stained-glass windows in a traditional church. 🕊️ Perched above the cliffs is a garden that has been built over time by believers from different countries and eras. This garden is a mosaic of small chapels, religious statues, reliefs, and monuments, each infused with cultural elements from around the world. It’s a beautiful representation of how diverse cultures interpret and honor the theme of the Virgin Mary. 🌸 Adjacent to the sanctuary, on a hillside, is a viewpoint known as Rocky Butte. From here, you can gaze out at majestic Mt. Rainier, Mt. Hood, and the Columbia River. It’s a breathtaking panorama that adds another layer of natural beauty to this already serene and spiritual place. 🌄 #Portland #PortlandTravel #AroundPortland #PortlandLife #Architecture #Church #CatholicChurch