Holy Land USA, Religious theme park in Waterbury, Connecticut.
Description
Holy Land USA is a religious theme park on a hillside in Waterbury, Connecticut, covering eighteen acres. The site presents replicas of biblical settings made from cinder blocks, old bathtubs, and other recycled materials spread across the wooded terrain.
History
John Baptist Greco founded the park in 1955 and built miniature versions of Jerusalem and Bethlehem with local volunteers. After his death in 1984, the site fell into disrepair until a revival effort began in the 2010s.
Culture
The park takes its name from its aim to recreate the Holy Land from the Bible. Visitors today can walk among weathered recreations of biblical sites and discover small chapels that are sometimes still used for prayer.
Practical
Access is often limited and requires coordination with local authorities, as the site is in partial restoration. Visitors should wear sturdy footwear, as paths are uneven and structures are not fully secured.
Did you know?
A 56-foot (17-meter) illuminated cross rises above the site and changes color according to the Catholic liturgical calendar. It has served for decades as a landmark for all of Waterbury and is visible from far away at night.
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