Bitterroot and Bergamot

A special grotto, originally uploaded by Bitterroot.

Here is a little grotto set into the side of a hill by a churchyard in Puerto Octay, Chile. Note the fresh flowers tenderly placed around Mary's feet. I've seen monuments to Catholicism both grandiose and exceedingly humble in France, Spain and Chile in the past year. While not Catholic myself, it's impossible to write my impressions of any of these countries without acknowledging the importance of this faith to the people who live there. I'm well aware that historically this religion was imposed upon the peoples of South America, but it is now deeply interwoven into community life. It is interesting to visit churches in different places to see how the original culture and building materials of the locale have combined with the religious imagery. The history of the souls who have worshipped there always seems very present.

# posted by Bitterroot @ 12:22 AM