| Our Lady of the Underpass | |
|---|---|
 Post-defacement, post-restoration photo of the stain, 2005 | |
| Location | Fullerton Avenue under the Kennedy Expressway, Chicago |
| Date | 2005 |
| Type | Efflorescence |
Our Lady of the Underpass [1] was a salt stain and purported appearance of the Virgin Mary [2] [3] under the Kennedy Expressway along Fullerton Avenue in Chicago [4] [5] that was noticed in 2005. The site became a pilgrimage site for local Catholics [6] as well as a general curiosity. Later, it became a target for various acts of vandalism. [7] [8] The Illinois Department of Transportation determined that the stain was likely formed by salt run-off. [8] Cardinal George, the Archbishop of Chicago, described it as "a purely natural phenomenon" but also said, "God has many ways to stir up devotion in people's hearts. [...] If it's helpful in reminding people of the Virgin Mary's care for us and love for us, that's wonderful." [9]
Tanya Saracho wrote a play about the event called Our Lady of the Underpass, [10] [11] [12] which was nominated for a Jeff Award. [13]
