There’s a place in New Mexico that has elements of a fairy tale: a former Roman Catholic chapel holding a mystery that draws people to visit from all over the world. Inside resides a staircase where all are invited to gaze upon it, trying to imagine who built it and how. To this day, no one knows the answers.

In the heart of Santa Fe, a gothic-style chapel sits among the surrounding adobe structures.
Loretto Chapel Facade New Mexico
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This is Loretto Chapel and what's hiding inside is nothing short of a miracle.
Construction on the Chapel of Our Lady of Light, as it was first called, began and finished in 1873, but not before a tragedy struck.
Loretto Chapel Sign Santa Fe New Mexico
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The architect passed away without building access to the choir loft. Unable to find anyone else to build a staircase, the Sisters of Loretto, after which the chapel is now named, prayed a special prayer (a novena) for nine days straight to Saint Joseph, Patron Saint of Carpenters. On the ninth day, their prayers were answered.
A carpenter appeared with tools and started construction on the staircase to the choir loft.
Loretto Chapel Altar and Staircase New Mexico
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After construction on this Miraculous Staircase was finished, the carpenter disappeared. No one knew who he was. No one knew what type of wood he used. And no one ever saw him again. Was this mysterious carpenter sent by Saint Joesph?

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With two full 360-degree turns and absolutely no central structural support or use of nails (only wooden pegs), this staircase became known as the Miraculous Staircase.
Loretto Chapel Miraculous Staircase New Mexico
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Only the bottom step supports the full weight of the stairs. Ten years after construction, banisters were added to aid those walking up and down.
Although the staircase is the main draw, one should not overlook the rest of the chapel.
Loretto Chapel Rose Window NM
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Gaze upon other stunning details such as this colorful rose window and other stained glass throughout this house of worship.
The altar of Loretto Chapel is framed by several stained glass windows and simple, yet elegant, details.
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If you can take your eyes away from the Miraculous Staircase, you will fall in love with the rest of the chapel. It is a sight to behold!

Loretto Chapel is like a location in a fairy tale because of the mystique involved in how the staircase was built and how it still stands today. It is nothing short of a miracle. A visit here will make you believe in the unbelievable.

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