Ave Maria Grotto

See exquisite hand-carved stone miniature buildings at this outdoor grotto.

The Ave Maria Grotto is located in the eastern part of Cullman, Alabama. It was created by the hands of Bavarian Joseph Zoettl, a monk from St. Bernard Abbey. You will see several miniature versions of religious buildings like those found in the holy land (Jerusalem) and Rome. Among the creations, there is also a miniature tower of Babel and even a leaning tower of Pisa. It will be hard to take a bad picture at this amazing place, so be sure to bring a good camera with you.

This peaceful place is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm. The grotto has been around since the 1930s but Joseph's first miniature creation was made in 1912. Joseph lived to the ripe old age of 80 and was buried at the nearby cemetery where the other monks were also laid to rest. Look no further for a unique attraction in northern Alabama. You'll surely be awe-inspired at the Ave Maria Grotto.