Kentucky is filled with secrets and some of them are better kept than others. There are hidden gems all over our state, both tucked away in the woods and hiding in plain sight. One such spot is definitely out in the open and passed by countless people every single day, yet most of them probably don’t even know it exists. The Grotto and the Garden of Our Lady of Lourdes is an unexpected, peaceful garden in Louisville that raises many questions, provides a quiet respite, and is one secret spot in Kentucky you likely never knew existed.
The neighborhood of St. Joseph’s in Louisville was named after the former St. Joseph’s Infirmary, which has long been demolished. But one piece of the historic property remains with the Grotto and Garden of Our Lady of Lourdes.
Google/Christina Hubbuch
The Grotto and Garden were built in 1927 and, almost 100 years later, continues to provide a peaceful destination for reflection and prayer.
Google/Cathy Civy
Photo Courtesy of Barbara Strevinsky/West Point Photography It appears to be in an odd spot, located just off of Eastern Parkway and tucked amongst apartment buildings, but when the Grotto was created, the land around it was an infirmary, so its position made sense. Dedicated volunteers have worked hard over the years to preserve it, and in 2001, it was designated as a Local and State Historical Landmark.
This historic site is still maintained by volunteers today, some of which call themselves the “Grotto Grannies.”
Google/Christina Hubbuch Unfortunately, the garden has been affected by vandalism, so it’s extremely important to be very respectful when you visit.
The Grotto and Garden is a serene place all year long, but it’s particularly eye-catching in the summer.
Photo Courtesy of Barbara Strevinsky/West Point Photography
As a true garden, the space is filled with blooming flowers, which beautifully accent the brick walls, stone structures, and vibrant artwork.
Photo Courtesy of Barbara Strevinsky/West Point Photography
The Grotto was designed based on a similar place in France, where Bernadette Soubirous is said to have seen apparitions of the Virgin Mary in 1858.
Photo Courtesy of Barbara Strevinsky/West Point Photography This scene is recreated in the Grotto and is one of many powerful spots within the Garden.
The murals that can be found on the surrounding walls are beautifully done, and also quite powerful.
Photo Courtesy of Barbara Strevinsky/West Point Photography The entire site is serene and moving, and quite unexpected given its modern day location.
The Grotto and Garden may be a secret place in Kentucky, but it’s one that is truly unique and worth experiencing for yourself.
Photo Courtesy of Barbara Strevinsky/West Point Photography If you’ve ever driven through this area and never knew about this secret spot, make it a point to check it out. Its breathtaking beauty is welcoming, and its history is so intriguing that this is a secret that is definitely worth sharing.
The Grotto and the Garden is a lovely Louisville historic site that is cared for by passionate people and is definitely a place we should respect, preserve, and visit for reflection and quiet. Did you know about this secret spot in Kentucky? Any other little gems we should know about? Let us know in the comments!
Google/Christina Hubbuch
Google/Cathy Civy
Photo Courtesy of Barbara Strevinsky/West Point Photography
It appears to be in an odd spot, located just off of Eastern Parkway and tucked amongst apartment buildings, but when the Grotto was created, the land around it was an infirmary, so its position made sense. Dedicated volunteers have worked hard over the years to preserve it, and in 2001, it was designated as a Local and State Historical Landmark.
Unfortunately, the garden has been affected by vandalism, so it’s extremely important to be very respectful when you visit.
This scene is recreated in the Grotto and is one of many powerful spots within the Garden.
The entire site is serene and moving, and quite unexpected given its modern day location.
If you’ve ever driven through this area and never knew about this secret spot, make it a point to check it out. Its breathtaking beauty is welcoming, and its history is so intriguing that this is a secret that is definitely worth sharing.
The Grotto and Garden is located off of Eastern Parkway between Bradley Avenue and Preston Street (adjacent to Presidents Boulevard).
A huge thank you to photographer Barbara Strevinsky and West Point Photography for her photo contributions in this article. You can check out more of her work here.
And for more beautiful gardens in Kentucky, check out our previous article here.
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