Ave Maria Grotto

It seems strange that in this small town of Cullman, Alabama, dead center of the protestant Bible Belt, boasts two Benedictine Monasteries, as well as the nearby Shrine of the Blessed Sacrament, convent of the well known Mother Angelica.  The monastery I stay at for retreat is Sacred Heart Monastery.

The Ave Maria Grotto, is located on the grounds of St. Bernard Abbey, the  only Benedictine monastery of men in the state of Alabama, consists of over 125 miniatures, reproductions of famous churches, shrines and buildings. Encompassing an area of over three acres, this miniature fairyland sees visitors from all over the world.  It's history can be found here.