University of Notre Dame, South Bend, Indiana

University of Notre Dame in South Bend, Indiana, is not only a destination in itself, but also a Place of Pilgrimage. About 208,000 visitors and pilgrims are drawn to the grotto, which is a replica of the Grotto in Lourdes. In 1842, Rev. Edward Sorin, C.S.C. a French priest and missionary, envisioned a great educational institution by the river in South Bend. Today, this university is well known for it’s Catholic ideals, and for it’s athletic accomplishments.