There is a one-of-a-kind place in Terre Haute, Indiana that offers peace and tranquility. Few people know about Indiana’s shell chapel and the history behind it.
If you’re looking for a new place to meditate and pray, this is it. Read on for more details about this hidden place of worship.
Built in 1876, St. Anne’s Chapel is situated in west-central Indiana on the campus of Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College and is known as a peaceful place to pray and meditate.
Facebook/Sisters of Providence of Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, Indiana
The shell chapel was built to honor a turbulent journey taken by a couple of sisters who traveled from Indiana to France to procure funds for their convent. While they were on their ship ride home, a heavy storm hit but luckily cleared up in time for them to make the rest of the voyage safely.
Facebook/Sisters of Providence of Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, Indiana
The original chapel was made from logs but has been remodeled from stone. Though small, it is worth visiting and exploring the grounds around it.
Google/Karen ORourke Dyer
The most amazing thing about this unique chapel is the thousands of shells that adorn the interior. Gathered from the Wabash River, the shells cover every single surface of this place of worship.
Facebook/Sisters of Providence of Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, Indiana
Everything about this ocean-themed chapel is astounding from the sea-green and coral colored tiles on the floor to the stained glass windows that are designed to look like shells and coral.
Google/Karen ORourke Dyer
Shells are molded into the alter, candlesticks, vases, walls, and so many other features of this one-of-a-kind space. Most do not know it even exists.
Google/Karen ORourke Dyer
All faiths are welcome to visit this chapel and marvel or meditate within its walls. Checking in with administration is always recommended when visiting college campuses.
Facebook/Sisters of Providence of Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, Indiana
If you’ve ever been to this shell chapel, we’d love to hear from you. Please share your experiences and photos with us below in the comments.
Facebook/Sisters of Providence of Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, Indiana
Google/Karen ORourke Dyer
For more like this, check out 10 churches in Indiana that are absolutely stunning.
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Address: 3301 St Marys Rd, West Terre Haute, IN 47885, USA
