maria stein shrine of the holy relics

Okay, so this is definitely a very interesting place to visit. As a Catholic, I found the relics to be fascinating, and I found the historical exhibits to provide insight into the early German settlers of the area. If you are in the area (Mercer, Auglaize, Darke Counties) or passing through on I-75 or US 127, it is worth a short detour. If you find yourself lost among the exhibits, ask one of the employees or volunteers, most of whom will be able to add a little bit of insight from their personal experience. Many, if not all, of the volunteers here were raised in the area and are Catholic. A huge bonus would be if you could get a tour from one of the retired nuns or priests, but their numbers have dwindled significantly in the past decade, so I would not count on that.I would add that you should add 10 or 20 minutes to your visit to drive through the countryside past all of the cross-tipped churches. Map it out first, there are many along SR 119, plus others scattered about on the country roads.This attraction is worthwhile if you are in the area, but does not warrant a trip from more than an hour away unless the attraction is of particular personal interest (i.e. history buff, Catholic, religion buff, etc).

Being non-Catholic, I was not sure what 'relics' actually are! Well, I sure found out here! And this is the 2nd largest holy relic collection in the country. Make sure you find out the history - makes it more interesting!

No much to see unless you book a tour? We were on a motorcycle and just stopped to view and noticed that there were a few people in one room with what looked like a tour guide. We just did a quick walk thru.

Used to stay here on retreat when the Sisters (Nuns) still occupied the place. Still a really nice retreat center. But eh Shrine... compelling. I do not personally put stock in the relics, tho I am a deep Christian. But the sense of awe that remains at the Shrine is worth a sit. Also, if you go, please do go upstairs (exit Shrine, go to opposite end of building and enter there) to the museum. The Sisters and the Order have a powerful story and it can be "heard" through their history.

Maria Stein is pretty well known in our area as a retreat center. It is a place of Spiritual renewal, but there is so much history associated with this place. The Shrine of the Holy Relics is beautiful and helps one reflect on the many lives that have been dedicated to God. It is a place for families and a place just to slow down and reflect on what is important in our lives. Worth the visit. No cost, but if you go to the gift shop it is had to get out without seeing something you want to buy.

Beautiful... so much history and things to see in such a small place! We went during the festival so there was more to do than just see the museum. Only thing to mention was that it had some narrow walkways to get through if there were a lot of people and no sign stating which direction to go.

Maria Stein has a wonderful and compelling collection of relics of the Catholic Church that are unmatched anywhere in the United States. This is well worth a visit.

The Shrine and relics are very well kept. The venue is in a rural country setting, with farms surrounding the grounds. I particularly enjoyed the large cross that is at this site. It is an excellent retreat center and well worth the visit.

The history of the are. As well as experincing there festival Was really nice. At the time I lived to many Miles away. And It was a good safe place to take your. whole family. The 4 th of July Weekend was very nice.

This is a lovely setting in the Ohio countryside -- peaceful and devotional. The grounds, too, are worth a stroll.

Awe inspiring to be in a place where icons of my religion are displayed. My mother had been there before me and I was so anxious to see it myself.

Definitely worth the time to stop by. True relics of the saints are on display and well narrated. A nice gift shop is on the premises for anyone looking for religious inspired gifts. I grew up being able to see the steeples so it is easy to pass off as something everyday. This is far from everyday!

You will be delighted with a peaceful visit to this site. The vast collection of relics is truly inspiring. A calm setting and relaxing feeling overcomes one in their Chapel. A must see in this area.