Saturday, September 26, 2009

Photo Hunters - Twisted



Photo Hunters - Twisted





The Loretto Staircase
Loretto Chapel
Santa Fe, NM



The Loretto Chapel. Santa Fe, NM. When was completed in 1878, there was no way to access the choir loft twenty-two feet above. Not uncommon of chapels of the time, when priests used ladders to climb into the lofts. But since Loretto was run by nuns, a staircase was needed. The chapel is too small for a conventional staircase. The sister prayed for an answer. Legend has it that a mysterious carpenter appeared and with only a hammer, saw, T-square and buckets of hot water for shaping the woord created the miraculous structure. Months later, the staircase was completed and the carpenter disappeared without pay or thanks. The stairway confounds architects, engineers and master craftsmen. It makes over two complete 360-degree turns, stands 20’ tall and has no center 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. When finished, the staircase had no handrails. The banister and balusters were added ten years later. It really is an amazing structure.




11 comments:

Susanne said...

That is incredible beautiful! And I love the story that goes with it!

Heidi said...

What a beautiful staircase! I love the history, and what a cool history this staircase holds.

Carver said...

Fantastic staircase and great idea for the theme. Happy weekend.

bonggamom said...

What a great staircase -- and it has a great story to go with it. Have a great weekend!

My twisted Photo Hunt entry is up!

Lisa said...

I love spiral staircases, and this one is particularly lovely.

kim said...

The staircase is really pretty, and makes a nice photo

ellen said...

Hello! Nice to be here. Wish to hear from you. Have a nice day.

dom said...

Let's keep our hearts open to receiving God's Word, so we can be rooted firmly in the truth. Hope you can find time to drop by to "Living beyond circumstances." God Bless.

Napaboaniya.Elaine Ling said...

Whenever I'm on stairs like this, I'll be holding on the railings with each step I take :P
With the fear of tumbling down it .. lol~
Nice twisted shot!

carmilevy said...

Fate works in wondrously miraculous ways. This staircase is a perfect example. I love how you've shared its story here. Got chills reading it.

Heart of Rachel said...

Beautiful staircase. I agree, it's an amazing structure.