30 Underrated Religious College Towns Across America You'll Fall in Love With

24. Bardstown, Kentucky: Bourbon and Deep Catholic Roots

Bardstown, often celebrated as the "Bourbon Capital of the World," holds a surprising, deep-seated spiritual significance. It's home to the first Catholic diocese in the United States west of the Allegheny Mountains, established in 1808. The Basilica of St. Joseph Proto-Cathedral stands as a testament to this legacy. Surrounding the town are several historic monasteries and abbeys. This unique blend of American whiskey heritage and profound Catholic history makes Bardstown a fascinating destination where material and spiritual pursuits intertwine in unexpected ways.