What is the religious meaning of Grotto?
What is the religious meaning of Grotto? The word “grotto” has become used almost exclusively to refer to Catholic shrines built into a rock formation. Often these rock formations are man-made, but they can also be found in natural caves throughout the world. Grottoes originated in both Greek and Roman culture and were associated with various gods.
Why do people visit the grotto?
The Grotto offers many lush and peaceful spots for spiritual meditation. Nearby, a tranquil trail is lined with towering trees; downy tufts of moss inch up their trunks, providing an aura of muted solitude.
Was Jesus born in a grotto?
The holy site known as the Nativity Grotto is thought to be the cave in which Jesus was born. In 135, Emperor Hadrian had the site above the grotto converted into a worship place for Adonis, the mortal lover of Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of beauty and desire.
Why is the Grotto important?
Religious grottoes They are often used as shrines in which to place statues of saints, particularly the Virgin Mary, in outdoor gardens. Many Roman Catholics visit a grotto where Bernadette Soubirous saw apparitions of Our Lady of Lourdes. Numerous garden shrines are modeled after these apparitions.
Why do we light candles at the Grotto?
It is a long standing tradition in Catholic, as well as other religious traditions, to light a candle as a physical representation of one's prayers.