The Crystal Shrine Cave in Memphis, Tennessee is a work of art

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Posted in Tennessee
withdrawals August 29, 2022
by Chris Dodge

There is a small place in our state hidden in a cemetery. It has become widely recognized as a masterpiece of art. The Crystal Shrine Cave in Memphis, Tennessee is a bit strange, but also extremely fascinating. This is truly one of those places that you have to see to believe.

The Crystal Shrine Grotto was the work of one man: Dionicio Rodriguez.
Rodriguez was commissioned by E. Clovis Hinds, the man who founded Memorial Park Cemetery, to build a monument that would help the cemetery become a place of peace and beauty. Rodriguez worked for six long years to create the crystal cave and several other structures on the cemetery grounds.

The prolific Mexican artist was very secretive about his methods, using proprietary hand-mixed cements and tints, formulas for which he carefully guarded. Even his life is something mysterious; not much seems to be known about the artist or where he learned his craft.

The cave was carved almost 60 meters into the side of a hill, and Rodriguez set to work creating a room that looks surprisingly natural.

Nearly five tons of natural crystals were brought from a mine in Arkansas and placed by hand along the walls and ceiling. When you walk in, you’ll be amazed by the array of colors that greet you. This is the only man-made crystal cave in the world, and the display is quite stunning.


Sunlight makes the crystals near the cave opening glow, but artificial lights deeper in the cave illuminate the rest.

The cave of the crystal shrine takes you through ten scenes depicting the life and ministry of Jesus. While Rodriguez created the small niches in the walls, the figures that now occupy them were created by a Memphis artist after Rodriguez’s death.

It is hard to believe ever that the cave is man-made. The rock formations are so true to life that it is easy to imagine that the cave has been there for centuries.
Walking through the cave is surreal. Being surrounded by a work of art of this scope is exhilarating and its natural appearance makes it feel like a magical journey.

Over the decades, the cave has gained a reputation for being a bit kitschy. That may be true for some people, but it’s easy to see how much work, love and dedication went into its creation. Many visitors feel a sense of quiet reverence as they take in the sights and colors of this most unusual destination.

The artwork also extends outside the cave. The structure shown below is actually the entrance to the cave, and many other pieces are located in the area known as the Garden of the Gods.

Each piece was expertly crafted by the mind and hands of the artist. Many are designed to look like wood, complete with peeling bark, wormholes and natural-looking textures. They are so deceptively realistic that you almost have to know they aren’t real wood to believe them.

The Crystal Shrine Cave is a popular location for photo shoots and even weddings – but you don’t need a special occasion to visit this incredible work of art. It is strange and mysterious, luring thousands of people from all over the world to see it every year. This interesting place is located inside the Memorial Park. This is a cemetery and funeral home, so be sure to remain respectful when visiting, but visitors are welcome and encouraged.

While visiting Memphis, be sure to grab a bite to eat at this wonderful restaurant with lots of history.

Address: Crystal Shrine Grotto, 5668 Poplar Ave, Memphis, TN 38120, USA

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