By Shelby Deering | Photo courtesy of Travel Wisconsin
There are many places in Wisconsin where fall colors come out in their best array: the Great River Road that flanks the Mississippi River, Devil’s Lake State Park and Wausau’s Rib Mountain to name a few. But there’s one fall-color destination that may be a bit off the beaten path. In Hubertus, atop a glacial rise in the landscape, lies Holy Hill. In autumn, this Catholic basilica is surrounded by thousands of trees lit up in bright autumn hues. Holy Hill is equally as picturesque after the snow falls, punctuated by pines.
Whether you’re with your family or taking a trip to Wisconsin, Holy Hill, especially in fall and winter, is a must-see. In addition to the views, this place of worship also has a fascinating history.
A SACRED HISTORY
Officially called the Basilica of the National Shrine of Mary, Holy Hill certainly has a grand appearance, with its spires rising above the scenery.
Today, more than half a million make the journey to visit Holy Hill and to experience its storied history and awe-inspiring architecture.
Native Americans once inhabited the hill, and its modern history starts with someone named François Soubrio, who was known as a hermit and discovered the hill in the 19th century. As a resident there, he happened upon a French diary and map with the date 1676, showcasing a small mountain. The person who kept the diary felt it was a holy place, and built a shrine that included a stone altar and cross, and dedicated the spot to Mary. Eventually, early Irish settlers gave the mountain its namesake: “Holy Hill.” It’s even been nicknamed “Hermit Hill” after Soubrio.
In 1876, the Archdiocese of Milwaukee took possession of the land. Portions of the construction were started in the late 19th century, and were finished in 1920. Additional portions of the basilica were completed in 1926, and it was finally finished and consecrated in 1931.
The hill came into existence over 10,000 years ago from a glacier, and today, it stands at 289 feet within the Kettle Moraine region.
A GRAND DESIGN
You can feel the history and spirituality of the church as soon as you enter. Its neo-Romanesque architecture is equal parts stunning and reverent. Situated on 453 acres, Holy Hill is made up of the Old Monastery Inn and Retreat Center, which was started in 1879, three shrines and the church, which reached completion in 1931.
The neo-Romanesque architecture movement began in the mid-19th century and was inspired by the Romanesque architecture of the 11th and 12th centuries. Marked by fortress- like visuals, rounded arches and impressive towers, Holy Hill displays all of these aspects.
While you can still see the century-old architectural features, which remain today, the architecture has been refreshed in recent years. For instance, the basilica tapped religious and classical architect Duncan G. Stroik to design new bronze doors at the main entrance, outfitted in relief sculptures of saints. And some of the architecture has been painstakingly restored by professionals, such as the terrazzo floors and pendant fixtures.
For many visitors, the Scenic Tower is the gem of Holy Hill, with 178 steps that lead to the top of the 192-foot tower, giving people the best seat in the house to take in the sweeping scenery. It’s open from May 1 through October 31.
VISITING HOLY HILL
While Holy Hill has never offered tours, the self-guided experience allows visitors to take their time as they pray, reflect, meditate, hike the grounds and simply meander. You can choose to take part in their Daily Mass or Sunday Mass to truly feel connected spiritually to the basilica and its ambiance.
First of all, even before you visit the grounds themselves, the drive up to Holy Hill can be breathtaking, especially in the fall. Visit the basilica to take in the architecture, go to a service or climb the Scenic Tower. Also, many people enjoy ambling the property. The Ice Age Trail, with a segment that’s seven miles long, cuts through the grounds, allowing for photo opportunities of the trees and buildings. There are also picnic tables available if you’d like to bring along lunch.
Outside, don’t miss the Stations of the Cross, which display scenes of Jesus’ crucifixion through striking, lifelike statues.
To make the most of your experience, you can have a meal at the Holy Hill Cafe, which serves up soups, sandwiches and salads. You can take a trip to the gift store packed with Holy Hill souvenirs and religious items. And to really immerse yourself, you can stay at the Holy Hill Guesthouse, with its quiet, simple retreat rooms located in The Old Monastery Inn and the remodeled New Guest House.
It’s important to keep accessibility in mind when visiting Holy Hill. While the main church is fully accessible, the Scenic Tower and guest houses are not.
Even though Holy Hill undoubtedly shines its brightest during fall, you’ll find it beautiful in all seasons, and is well worth the pilgrimage to get there.
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