Loretto Chapel, a former Roman Catholic church, is known for its unusual spiral staircase. Called the Miraculous Staircase, it makes two 360-degree turns and is 6 m (20 ft) tall--but has no visible means of support. It's not only an engineering mystery; no one knows for certain who built it. The Sisters of Loretto credit St. Joseph, the patron saint of carpenters, with its construction. After examining the staircase, give yourself enough time to appreciate the Gothic Revival architecture of this late 19th-century building. It features imposing spires, buttresses, and stained-glass windows imported from France. PutLoretto Chapel into our Santa Fe road trip website and find out what's close by, where to stay, and where to head next.
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Loretto Chapel reviews
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Interesting to look at the wooden spiral staircase. Take the time to sit and listen to the narrative about the church's history. $5 entrance fee per person and senior discount if you request, $4...
Interesting to look at the wooden spiral staircase. Take the time to sit and listen to the narrative about the church's history. $5 entrance fee per person and senior discount if you request, $4... more »
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The entire church is very attractive -- its design was reportedly inspired by Sainte-Chapelle in Paris, and the resemblance can be easily noted. However, the star attraction is the staircase, and it..... more
The entire church is very attractive -- its design was reportedly inspired by Sainte-Chapelle in Paris, and the resemblance can be easily noted. However, the star attraction is the staircase, and it..... more »
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This chapel was breathtaking! Absolute serenity! We can to see the miraculous staircase during a real estate conference! The design and architecture was amazing with the high ceilings and intricate architecture! There are many shops located in the museum with very interesting items to browse.
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Such a beautifully preserved piece of fun religious history. Once inside there are audio tapes playing that will explain the miraculous story of a staircase that was mysteriously finished by an unknown carpenter without payment after 9 days of prayer from the nuns of this chapel. For only a $5 entry fee, I could not recommend it more if you find yourself in Santa Fe! I think there is enough history here regardless of your faith or denomination to be worthy of a visit! There is also a very nice gift shop when exiting the chapel.
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