Scenic USA - Colorado

Chapel on a Rock

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Saint Catherine's Chapel, Allenspark, Colorado
Photo by Jim Stiles
Jim Stiles Photography
Inset photos by Ben Prepelka

   During a quest to find the impact site from a falling star in 1916, Monsignor St. Catherine of Siena Chapel Interior- Allenspark, Colorado Joseph Bosetti came across a large rock formation just east of Rocky Mountain National Park. Stirred by the Biblical phrase upon this rock I will build my church, Bosetti soon began to envision a church perched on the rock he had just discovered. As with many dreams, Bosetti's lack of funds delayed construction for nearly 20 years. During this time not only did Bosetti keep his dream alive, but struggled with the Colorado Highway Department to keep his rock intact.
   Eventually, land for the church and retreat center was donated by Mr. and Mrs. Oscar Malo, and Denver architect Jacques Benedict transposed Bosetti’s dream to paper. With Mount Meeker as a backdrop, the Chapel on the Rock took shape. Here in this dramatic Rocky Mountain setting, Bosetti dream was completed in 1936.
   Adorned with Giacomo-Mussner statues and Franz Mayer stained-glass, the St. Catherine of Siena Chapel Stained Glass - Allenspark, Colorado St. Catherine of Siena Chapel is one of those must see Colorado sights. Found just north of Allenspark on Route 7, the Saint Malo Retreat Center offers a three story lodge and a number of conference rooms for religious and spiritual purposes. Camp Saint Malo, a non-profit Catholic retreat, extends invitations to all religions denominations, including groups and individuals.

   Update: Unfortunately fire and flood has devastated the Saint Malo Retreat and the conference center is closed. While the chapel was undamaged, and renovations at Camp St. Malo were proceeding at a fast pace, a mudslide puts any possible plans to rebuild the property on an indefinite hold. The St. Williams Lodge is open for public visits and the celebration of matrimony.

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