How long the grotto in honor of Our Lady has been in place on the bank of Bayou Lafourche in Thibodaux, I have no idea, but, only the other day, when I picked my grandson up from day camp, did I first take note. The grotto is on the main road through town, which makes it quite visible, and I wonder how I could have missed seeing it for however long it's been there.
The grotto stands next to a peaceful scene of Bayou Lafourche, which is a tributary of the Mississippi River.
The opening to the left of the statue of Mary curves through to the side of the grotto, to what purpose I can't say.
The top photo shows the corner of the bench where visitors can sit and pray, or meditate, or simply rest a while.
Now that I've discovered the structure, I'd like to know something about when it was constructed and by whom. I Googled, but I found nothing.
The photo to the right shows the side opening of the grotto. As you see from the green moss or lichen (or whatever) growing on the stones, the structure has been there a while.
To the right of the grotto is a paved area large enough to park two cars. The entire concept is well-planned and well-constructed. Now that I've discovered the grotto, I want to know more.
UPDATE:
Grotto
Our Lady stands
In the small grotto
Built by unknown hands
On the bank of the bayou
And prays in peaceful repose
(June Butler - 7/17/2013)
