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| Geodes |
In
the small Southern Indiana town of Jasper resides an oddity well worth the trip
– a Geode Grotto. Geodes are hollow mineral “rocks" found in limestone and
shale that is abundant in the region. The inside of the somewhat round rock is filled
with inward-projecting crystals in a range of colors from deep purples, to
lavenders to yellows to rich golds.
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| Geode Walls |
At mid-century, Father Phillip Ottavi, an Italian
immigrant, wanted to build something spiritual on the
former grounds of the Providence House handball courts. He was seeking to construct something unique; a grotto similar to the one in Lourdes, France, but built from geodes.
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| Mother of God Shrine |
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| Geode Fountain |
The
grotto was constructed over a ten year period from 1960-1970 using geodes from
around the region including Heltonville. The stones were placed in limestone
and plaster to form geode paths, a fountain, planters, and archways containing the
Stations of the Cross. At one end is a shrine to St. Joseph, and at the other The Mother of God Shrine. Father Philip worked every day for ten years to complete the massive undertaking. The result is a grotto
that covers four city blocks.
If
you’re looking for awe-inspiring sites that offer a chance to get out and
about, The Geode Grotto of Jasper is perfect. It is located at 13th and Bartley Streets behind St. John’s Cathedral. And be sure to take a camera, it’s worth
the trip!
~ Joy
