Our Lady of the Highway Our Lady of the Highway Shrine is one of Vegreville’s unique attractions, being the only one of its kind in all of Canada. The shrine, located just east of town on Highway 16A, is seven feet high and was sculpted in Italy from Carrara Marble (Italian White Marble). It was erected by the Vegreville Knights of Columbus. Before embarking upon a voyage, many famous explorers asked the blessings of Our Lady to protect and direct them in their journeys. The shrine on Highway 16A exists to serve the same purpose. The statue is dedicated to glorify the Blessed Virgin Mary, who acts as a “Heavenly guide” along the highways of life – including those dangers that hinder our daily travels along the cement, asphalt, gravel or dirt roads. Just as the explorers in our history books, a devotion to Our Lady has developed, but she is known in recent years as Our Lady of the Highway.
The statue of Our Lady conveys the theme of ‘divine guidance sought by travelers.’ The theme is displayed in the form of the world, represented by the sphere, and interwoven throughout the design. Four hoops grouped together to form a cross symbolize the four corners of the world, and at the same time reflect travel by suggesting the wheel. The base upon which the statue stands, (the larger base and the circular enclosure surrounding it), also symbolize the world. Of modernistic design, there is also a spacious parking area in front of the shrine for motorists who wish to stop a while. It makes a great spot for taking photographs as many local residents come to the shrine to take pictures for weddings of for large gatherings. Our Lady of the Highway Shrine is unique to only Vegreville and represents hope, guidance and safety for all.
This religious is the monument kind s it f o only one d a n in Ca a!
16 In & Around Vegreville 2020
