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I am a complete sucker for roadside attractions, oddities and little museums. Such explorations help you really get to know the culture of the area you're touring. This chapel just off the Plaza did not disappoint! Out of curiosity, I read a couple of the other reviews before I began writing about my own experience. It's a chapel, so I wasn't expecting the tour I had at the Vatican. It's small and quaint, which is reflective of most religious edifices in the West built in the mid-1800s. The story of the stranger, the staircase and the miracle is fascinating. Whether you are a believer or not, the spiral structure is a delightful marvel. The detail and craftsmanship of the room itself are inspiring for anyone interested in architecture. It just glows and feels sacred. The cover is $5, which is nothing. I'd trade a burger for another trip through those doors.
Such a beautiful place to visit. Such history and it is preserved so well. It was nice to sit in the chapel, light candles and see the beauty in there. They have a gift shop with reasonably priced, beautiful things to buy. My daughter and I will never forget this experience.
One of our sightseeing stops in downtown Santa Fe was this charming chapel, where the $5 admission helps support its upkeep. We originally ducked in to wait out the rain but ended up enjoying the visit. The beautiful stained glass and the famous "miraculous" spiral staircase were fascinating to see in person. There's also a continuous audio recording that tells the story behind the chapel and how the staircase was built. A short but memorable stop.
A catholic chapel built in the late 1873, commissioned by the Sisters of Loretto as a private school for the girls. It mirrored Paris' the Sainte-Chappelle. The 33 steps "Miraculous Stairway" is most famous. Made carpenter's wood, without center support, resting entirely on its final tread. Legend had it, nearing completion, they realized that they had no access to the upper floor. So the sisters prayed a nine day novena to their patron Saint Joseph. A carpenter came, with a carpenters square, a saw and a hammer. The chapel is small but the gift shop is of equal size.
This is beautiful and for 5 dollar you can go inside and see the twisted stairs There is a gift shop with so many cute and spiritual gifts
Beautiful! We were taking part in an audio walking tour and this was one of the stops. It was of course also recommended by friends and other travelers for the staircase. There's a $5 fee to enter which goes to upkeep of the chapel. Once we entered, I was blown away. The altar and everything around it were gorgeous! The staircase is also really neat. They have a recording playing on a loop that gives the history of the chapel and the stairs, and it was nice to sit in the pews and listen to it for a bit. While we didn't spend a bunch of time here, it was a stop we are glad that we made!
If you're hitting the historic plaza in Santa Fe, make time to visit the Loretto Chapel to see the "miraculous staircase" for yourself. The craftsmanship and construction details are phenomenal -- no matter how long you stare at it, it's hard to fathom how it was built.
This historic chapel is now a museum, the admission was $10. Small but beautiful and mighty chapel, known for its uniquely built spiral staircase design. Info is shared on a PA speaker.
The chapel is now known more as a tourist attraction because of what many consider a kind of miracle: a staircase that humbles master craftsmen today because it was made without power or fancy tools. The staircase was made for people to sing praises to God. This was its purpose and I find this to be a greater miracle: not that we have a made a staircase to a loft but more so that we sing because God became flesh and came down to us to show us that worship is based on His love.
Very small and just the staircase. Nothing else to see. If you see my photos, you've seen everything of it. $5 for 5 mins tour.
For those who follow me here, I have a passion for churches... the Loretta Chapel in Santa Fe is small, but breathtaking. The centerpiece is the 2 story staircase that was built (by us of the faith) by St. Joseph in response to the prayers of the nuns in residence at the chapel in the 1870s. The builder of the chapel died before the stairs to the choir loft were built. Without funds, the nuns prayed a novena to St. Joseph. On the 9th day of the prayer, a stranger showed up with minimal tools, built the staircase, and disappeared. Modern engineers cannot explain how the spiral staircase exists without any visible means of support. Many to this day believe this was a miracle! The staircase is amazing, and all who see it feel there is something special about it! It's primarily a special event venue now. It costs a few bucks to get in, and the exit takes you through the gift shop! LOL It's well worth the 30 minutes it takes to tour the chapel. Highly recommend the Loretta Chapel!
This is a must-see in Santa Fe. Not only is it beautiful, but the spiral staircase is such a cool story. It's super neat to look at. And it's only $5 to get in. I'd definitely check it out for an up close look at the unsolved mystery of the staircase.
After watching the movie on the miracle staircase probably 40 years ago we decided to visit the staircase in person at Loretto Chapel in Santa Fe. The Chapel is a very close walking distance from the Santa Fe Plaza. The cost to enter was $5.00 general admission and $4.00 for seniors. Inside the Chapel beside the staircase there is a beautiful alter. We had a nice visit but 10 minutes is all you need to see everything. Will return. read more
2 months ago
This chapel charges a fee to enter, most likely because of the staircase. The chapel was overcrowded with people who weren't being very respectful and there was an automated message over the loudspeaker, which made it feel like this beautiful chapel was now a tourist trap. The staircase was pretty, but it wasn't anything to marvel at for longer than a few seconds. The only "neat" thing about it was that it was modeled after St. Etienne in Paris, which I have been to and loved. NOTE: They do have a great giftshop! read more
2 months ago
I loved attending the Loretto Chapel because of its rich history and seeing the architecture up close is a sight to see. There was a $5 admission fee but it was worth it. The church and gift shop was smaller than what I thought but I enjoyed my time here. read more
7 months ago
I am a complete sucker for roadside attractions, oddities and little museums. Such explorations help you really get to know the culture of the area you're touring. This chapel just off the Plaza did not disappoint! Out of curiosity, I read a couple of the other reviews before I began writing about my own experience. It's a chapel, so I wasn't expecting the tour I had at the Vatican. It's small and quaint, which is reflective of most religious edifices in the West built in the mid-1800s. The story of the stranger, the staircase and the miracle is fascinating. Whether you are a believer or not, the spiral structure is a delightful marvel. The detail and craftsmanship of the room itself are inspiring for anyone interested in architecture. It just glows and feels sacred. The cover is $5, which is nothing. I'd trade a burger for another trip through those doors. read more
3 months ago
Such a beautiful place to visit. Such history and it is preserved so well. It was nice to sit in the chapel, light candles and see the beauty in there. They have a gift shop with reasonably priced, beautiful things to buy. My daughter and I will never forget this experience. read more
One of our sightseeing stops in downtown Santa Fe was this charming chapel, where the $5 admission helps support its upkeep. We originally ducked in to wait out the rain but ended up enjoying the visit. The beautiful stained glass and the famous "miraculous" spiral staircase were fascinating to see in person. There's also a continuous audio recording that tells the story behind the chapel and how the staircase was built. A short but memorable stop. read more
A catholic chapel built in the late 1873, commissioned by the Sisters of Loretto as a private school for the girls. It mirrored Paris' the Sainte-Chappelle. The 33 steps "Miraculous Stairway" is most famous. Made carpenter's wood, without center support, resting entirely on its final tread. Legend had it, nearing completion, they realized that they had no access to the upper floor. So the sisters prayed a nine day novena to their patron Saint Joseph. A carpenter came, with a carpenters square, a saw and a hammer. The chapel is small but the gift shop is of equal size. read more
Beautiful! We were taking part in an audio walking tour and this was one of the stops. It was of course also recommended by friends and other travelers for the staircase. There's a $5 fee to enter which goes to upkeep of the chapel. Once we entered, I was blown away. The altar and everything around it were gorgeous! The staircase is also really neat. They have a recording playing on a loop that gives the history of the chapel and the stairs, and it was nice to sit in the pews and listen to it for a bit. While we didn't spend a bunch of time here, it was a stop we are glad that we made! read more
If you're hitting the historic plaza in Santa Fe, make time to visit the Loretto Chapel to see the "miraculous staircase" for yourself. The craftsmanship and construction details are phenomenal -- no matter how long you stare at it, it's hard to fathom how it was built. read more
1 year ago
This historic chapel is now a museum, the admission was $10. Small but beautiful and mighty chapel, known for its uniquely built spiral staircase design. Info is shared on a PA speaker. read more
3 months ago
The chapel is now known more as a tourist attraction because of what many consider a kind of miracle: a staircase that humbles master craftsmen today because it was made without power or fancy tools. The staircase was made for people to sing praises to God. This was its purpose and I find this to be a greater miracle: not that we have a made a staircase to a loft but more so that we sing because God became flesh and came down to us to show us that worship is based on His love. read more
8 months ago
Very small and just the staircase. Nothing else to see. If you see my photos, you've seen everything of it. $5 for 5 mins tour. read more
For those who follow me here, I have a passion for churches... the Loretta Chapel in Santa Fe is small, but breathtaking. The centerpiece is the 2 story staircase that was built (by us of the faith) by St. Joseph in response to the prayers of the nuns in residence at the chapel in the 1870s. The builder of the chapel died before the stairs to the choir loft were built. Without funds, the nuns prayed a novena to St. Joseph. On the 9th day of the prayer, a stranger showed up with minimal tools, built the staircase, and disappeared. Modern engineers cannot explain how the spiral staircase exists without any visible means of support. Many to this day believe this was a miracle! The staircase is amazing, and all who see it feel there is something special about it! It's primarily a special event venue now. It costs a few bucks to get in, and the exit takes you through the gift shop! LOL It's well worth the 30 minutes it takes to tour the chapel. Highly recommend the Loretta Chapel! read more
This is a must-see in Santa Fe. Not only is it beautiful, but the spiral staircase is such a cool story. It's super neat to look at. And it's only $5 to get in. I'd definitely check it out for an up close look at the unsolved mystery of the staircase. read more
On June 26, 2024, I took my young daughters to Loretto Chapel. I paid $11 cash for the three of us to self-tour. Construction of the Chapel began in 1873. The gothic-style architecture should remind you a bit of France... namely, the Sainte Chapelle in Paris which I unfortunately have only seen in photographs. The Loretto architect died before completing this strange structure set in the usual adobe-style Southwest. So the Sisters of Loretto, who founded the all-girls school here, prayed long and hard (9 days which is referred to as a "novena") to St. Joseph (Patron Saint of Carpenters). You can guess - especially if you glanced at my photo first - a mysterious carpenter eventually arrived to build the staircase only to then leave without anyone knowing who he really was. (I find this to be the most miraculous aspect!) This story and other key details about the chapel are narrated through speakers near the left-side aisles. Certain areas, including the staircase, are blocked off. Have a seat on a wooden bench. Sit back. Listen to the narration available only in English & admire the beauty surrounding you. Before exiting through the gift shop, check out the miniature replica of the staircase--it's just as impressive! And what makes this staircase evermore "miraculous?" Just that it "has two complete 360 degree turns with no center pole for structural support. The entire weight of the staircase rests on the bottom stair." I concur with others' sentiments that I wish the banisters and the two small brackets had never been added. Recommended as a stop when in historic Downtown Santa Fe, New Mexico, which is near the Plaza. Go there too! read more
1 year ago
You MUST go see! So peaceful and restful. The stars are of course amazing, but the stain glass windows and altar are as well! Admission is $5.00. Gift shop is reasonably priced and has good variety. Candles are available for lighting and praying. read more
11 months ago
Beautiful chapel with a place to light candles for loved ones. The staircase is magical. Lovely stop in Santa Fe. read more
A must see if you are in Santa Fe. The Miraculous Staircase is quite magnificent. The Chapel is beautiful; construction of the chapel began in 1873. For any 1st time Santa Fe visitors I recomend you visit the Lorreto Chapel before doing anything else. Open every day except Christmas from 930am-430pm admission ranges from 3-5 dollars per person children 7 and under are free. read more
The Loretto Chapel was an interesting stop, but nothing to write home about. Rather than having people pay admission, they should have a donation jar. Especially since they are more than likely already making money from the gift shop. The church is no doubt beautiful, and the staircase is wonderous, but I didn't like how they added railings to the stairs. It takes away from the actual mystery of them and what was originally there. read more
2 years ago
4 years ago
The Loretto chapel located in downtown Santa Fe is a beautiful building. Now privately owned as a historical landmark it houses a structural carpentry marvel, built on 1865, that is attributed to Saint Joseph. Publicized by Unsolved Mysteries the staircase was built by an unknown traveler after the nuns prayed for an answer to access the choir loft. A small admission price is utilized to continue preservation of this beautiful building. Highly recommend if you were in the Santa Fe area to see the chapel read more
2 years ago
Pretty short quick line - it's $5 to go in. Miracle staircase is beautiful- was hoping there was more history to read but you have to read about it in the collateral for sale in gift shop. External view was all under construction which is a shame but still got some ok shots read more
11 months ago
Beautiful Gothic Revival chapel completed in 1878. The design is based on Sainte-Chapelle in Paris (one of my favorites). It composed of soaring spires, buttresses, and stained glass windows which were imported from France via the Santa Fe Trail. The Miraculous Spiral Staircase The Loretto Chapel is best known for its "miraculous" spiral staircase. The staircase rises 20 feet to the choir loft, making two full turns, seemingly unsupported. Built mainly from wood, it is held together by wooden pegs and glue instead of nails. Handrails were eventually added as well. According to legend, as the chapel was being completed, there still was no access to the choir loft. Unable to find a suitable carpenter to complete the stairs, the the nuns prayed for nine straight days to St. Joseph, the patron saint of carpenters. On the final day, their prayers were answered. A mysterious stranger appeared and offered to build the staircase for free. Using simple hand tools, he built the spiral staircase and and then disappeared afterwards without revealing his identity or collecting any payment. Today, the Loretto Chapel is a privately owned museum and wedding venue, yet the secret of the staircase still remains a mystery. read more
It's one of those historical places in Santa Fe that would make you go "Yea, I've been there!". It's only $5 to get in, and you can stay in the chapel as long as you want. Basically what it is is you go in the sanctuary where people have to be quiet but there's a loud narration recording on the history of the place. You can also get a selfie with the "Miracle Staircase" like I did. They have a huge gift shop as well, but mostly religious stuff. read more
3 years ago
Amazing and beautiful church. The architecture is amazing to see pictures don't justify the beauty. If you are in the area it's a must see read more
5 years ago
Love the story of the Miraculous Holy Staircase!! You can find this staircase inside Loretto Chapel in Santa Fe, New Mexico. It costs $5 per person to enter, but I feel that it is worth it. Many folks feel that this is a tourist trap, but I'm not one of them. The weekend we visited, the little Chapel was filled with people. Most folks were hanging out at the back of the church because that is where the staircase is located. While sitting at the pews, you can listen to the story of Loretto Chapel and how the Holy Staircase was built. I do not believe that any masses or services are done at Loretto Chapel anymore. Although, I think that you can book your wedding here. After taking photos and listening to the story of the Miraculous staircase, we sat down at the front of the chapel. We lit a candle, and we said our prayers thanking God for giving us the opportunity to visit the Loretto Chapel in person. Awesome experience!! read more
3 years ago
Beautiful Chapel. The inside is awesome. The story behind the construction and sourced wood for building the staircase will blow your mind. Must see. read more
When is a church not a church? When it's a chapel of love 'cause we're goin' to the chapel and we're gonna get ma-a-arried, goin' to the chapel and we're gonna get ma-a-arried. Gee, I really love you and we're gonna get ma-a-arried. Goin' to the chapel of love. Thank you. No, please sit down. This is indeed a church where people get betrothed but there are no services. It's really a tiny museum with one real attraction, the magical staircase. Cue for the angelic choir. Indeed it did look like it was built with no visible physical support (photo: http://bit.ly/2KCkleG). It turns out that's pretty much what your five bucks gets you because otherwise it's a cute chapel and not much more. The adjoining academy closed in 1968 and has since turned into a pricey hotel and spa. Jamie W. and I stumbled into the posh lobby through an exit door. When we were in need of the facilities, we were told in a snippy tone that the public-looking restrooms were for hotel guests only. So much for Starbucks civility. Guess the $5 doesn't take you too far here. RELATED - Do you know the way to Santa Fe? Here's a collection of places I've visited and reviewed: bit.ly/2I4mWdq read more
We had a little time to kill and heard about the "Miraculous Stairs" and figured we would check them out the first time we tried the line was super long the reason why there is a line is because they charge per person to see the Chappel. Its $5 per adult and a small discount for Seniors and Children. It really is just walking into the church and taking some pics of the stairs. For $1 you can light a candle at the altar. Then you exit through a gift store filled with all kinds of things. If you want to see the stairs and you have a religious connection, I would recommend this but before I would look up the story so you have something to relate it too. If this review helped you, please mark it as helpful and follow me for more around the world. read more
4 years ago
This is a staple and must visit if you are in Santa fe. It is the First gothic structure west of the Mississippi. Built between1873-1878, patterned after St chapelle in Paris . Known for its Miraculous stairway, which has 360 degrees turns without any central support . It was originally with no rails and these were added later (1887?) . Windows are Handcrafted Stained glass in 1874 . Station of the cross and alter from Italy , made from marbled dust . This place is truly a 19th century treasures. read more
4 years ago
The first time I saw this place was on TV from watching Unsolved Mystery. After a few years, I'm finally here, visiting the Loretto Chapel. Looking at the miraculous stairs in person up close and personal is a feeling I can't explain. If you are in Santa Fe, New Mexico, please have time to visit the chapel. It's located in the old town of Santa Fe. The parking is easy to find, and you can be in and out of the chapel for about 15-30 minutes. read more
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Ask the Community - Loretto Chapel
Is the Loretto Chapel still open for visitors despite the ongoing COVID-19 situation affecting the whole country ? We are in Albuquerque for a stopover and would really like to visit. Please advise.
YES! It's open and wonderful. You get a great feeling of inner peace when you visit this miraculous Holy Chapel. We just returned yesterday (8/21/2023) after spending 2 days there and the city of Santa Fe is lovely this time of year. there's so…
Are visitors allowed to ascend the spiral staircase?
No they won't allow you to do so.
There is a staircase above the choir loft (not the spiral staircase). What is at the top of that set of stairs?
The Choir Loft
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