Loretto Chapel & Miracle Staircase
Loretto Chapel was constructed in 1873 to accommodate Catholic school founded in 1852 by the Sisters of Loretto. When the Loretto Chapel was completed, there was no way to access the choir loft, 22 feet above. Legend says it was constructed or inspired by St. Joseph the Carpenter. The staircase took at least six months to build, stands 20’ tall, and has two 360 degree turns with no visible means of support. It rests solely on its base and against the choir loft. The risers of the 33 steps are all of the same height. Made of an apparently extinct wood species, it was constructed with only square wooden pegs without glue or nails. Over the years many have flocked to the Loretto Chapel to see the Miraculous Staircase. Loretto Chapel is now a private museum open to the public.
The Loretto Chapel & Miracle Staircase is within walking distance of Inn of the Governors.
- Exit Left out of the Lobby onto West Alameda Street
- Turn Left onto Old Santa Fe Trail and follow for half a block to 207 Old Santa Fe Trail.