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TWO WORLDS TREASURES
Explore Texas & beyond from Dallas/Ft. Worth
The Miraculous Staircase in Loretto Chapel, Santa Fe, New Mexico.
“You must visit Loretto Chapel in Santa Fe,” said our friend when they heard we planned a trip to Albuquerque and Santa Fe for the summer .
“It’s a beautiful church with a miraculous staircase . That’s where our son got married,” she continued.
Disclaimer: Two Worlds Treasures may contain affiliate links and is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. If you make a purchase using one of these Amazon links, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Read my Privacy Policy for more info.
After I googled it, I knew I had to put Loretto Chapel in Santa Fe for our Albuquerque and Santa Fe, New Mexico trip itinerary. It is one of the old churches in Santa Fe that you must visit.
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Loretto Chapel Santa Fe: a Church or a Museum?
The name reflects Loretto Chapel in Santa Fe as a church. But what was a Roman Catholic Church today is used as a museum and a wedding chapel.
Loretto Chapel is known for its unusual spiral staircase. It has two 360 degrees turns and no visible means of support. The architect didn’t use nails when building this spiral staircase. He only used wooden pegs.
The History of the Miraculous Staircase in Loretto Chapel
When they built Loretto Chapel in 1878, there was no access to the choir loft, which was twenty-two feet above. I found it a bit weird.
Then the Sisters of the Chapel asked carpenters around for solutions. Everyone said it needed a ladder, as a staircase would interfere with the interior of this small Chapel.
Then they made a novena to St. Joseph, the patron saint of carpenters. They were looking for the answer and help.
On the ninth and final day of prayer, a man appeared at the Chapel with a donkey and a toolbox looking for work.
He started the job and completed the staircase to the choir loft. But the carpenter disappeared without pay and thanks once he completed the job.
The Sisters searched for the man with no trace, and some believed that he was St. Joseph the carpenter himself, having come in answer to the sisters’ prayers.
The Beautiful Loretto Chapel in Santa Fe
Like most churches built in the 1800s, Loretto Chapel has a Gothic architectural style. When I walked into the chapel, I felt like I walked into one of the buildings in Gotham City. Once inside, I felt peaceful in the room.
The miraculous staircase stood magnificently at the back of the chapel. Visitors stand around the staircase or sit on the pew looking at the spiral staircase. Some were looking for nails, while some were fascinated by their miracle.
People also lit candles and said their prayers.
The stained glasses added a touch of beauty to this chapel. No wonder it is one of the favorite places for a wedding in Santa Fe.
Even though it doesn’t function as a church anymore, everybody kept their voices low to respect others who came for a quiet time.
Tips for visiting Loretto Chapel :
- The Chapel may close without notice for special events; call ahead to see if it’s open on the day of your visit.
- Visit when they open in the morning to beat the crowd.
- You can only see the staircase; you can’t climb it.
Loretto Chapel Hours:
Open daily from 9.30 a.m. to 4.30 p.m.
Closed on Christmas Day.
A visit to Loretto Chapel doesn’t take much of your time. You must check out these 55 things to do in Santa Fe to make your visit to town more fun and memorable.
Loretto Chapel admission fee:
Adult admission is $5. Senior 65 and over: $4. Youth 7-17: $3. Children under 7: Free.
When the Loretto Academy closed in 1968, the Sisters of Loretto offered the chapel to the archdiocese. They declined the offer, so the Sisters sold the chapel to a private entity. The new owners restored the chapel and have been caring for it until today. It is now a museum and relies heavily on the generosity of visitors to provide long-term conservation of its architectural, cultural, and spiritual legacy.
Loretto Chapel Gift Shop
Next to the chapel is the Loretto Chapel Gift Shop where you can find things like chapel souvenirs , rosaries, Christmas ornaments , Christmas decorations with New Mexico designs, home decorations , Christian jewelry, and other religious items.
Address: 207 Old Santa Fe Trail, Santa Fe, NM 87501 (505) 982-0092.
Wedding Information: Call (505) 982-0092. Email [email protected]
Hotels near Loretto Chapel Santa Fe New Mexico
Here are a few hotels that are within one to two blocks of Loretto Chapel:
– Inn & Spa at Loretto right next to the chapel.
– La Fonda on the Plaza , near Santa Fe Plaza, three blocks from the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum and four blocks from Canyon Road’s galleries.
– El Sendero Inn is two minutes walk from the Loretto Chapel and ten minute walk from Georgia O’Keeffe Museum.
You will need to drive to Loretto Chapel when staying at one of these hotels:
– Drury Plaza Hotel in Santa Fe , offering views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
– Hotel Chimayo de Santa Fe . The art-filled hotel features original artwork and custom furniture by Chimayo artists and craftspeople.
– Inn of the Governors . Two blocks from Loretto Chapel and three blocks from Santa Fe Plaza. It’s still a walking distance.
Thank you for sharing this:
Umiko Buhl is a travel blogger and the founder of Two Worlds Treasures. She travels around Texas to neighboring states and around the country with her family and dog from their family home in the south of Dallas/Fort Worth. Originally from Indonesia, she tries to go home every 2-3 years to spend time with her families and friends while exploring Indonesia. Her mission is to share her honest reviews of places she visited.
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25 comments.
When we visited Santa Fe, seeing the Loretto Chapel and the staircase was definitely one of the things on our list. As a civil engineer, I spent a long time looking at the staircase and its construction to stand with no means of support. I can see why people would want this beautiful spot for their wedding.
You are right. It’s so pretty in there.
I love Santa Fe. It is a special place and this looks like a lovely place to visit. What a beautiful chapel. Definitely will put this on our things to see for our next visit.
I love Santa Fe, too. There are so much to see in town that we haven’t got to visit yet. Maybe this summer we will go there again.
That staircase is gorgeous! I want that in my house LOL I love visiting Churches – is that weird?
Yes, it’s really gorgeous! I like visiting churches, too, especially when it’s unique. So, no, I don’t think it’s weird. Haha…
What a beautiful, peaceful, incredible place. That staircase is amazing – as is the story behind it.
How amazing! That staircase is beautiful. Another thing I didnt know about to add to my never ending list 🙂
Yeah, there are so many things or places that we haven’t heard before that make our list never ends.
What an incredible story! I love learning about the unique history of beautiful places like this. Thanks so much for sharing your visit to this incredible chapel!
You are welcome!
I’ve never heard of this before, but thank you for sharing! The Staircase and Chapel look amazing. I’m sure the wedding photos were amazing too. The history of the place is also interesting that it’s from the 1800s.
Yes, the wedding photos were amazing.
Such a beautiful staircase and a fun story to go along with it. We love to visit historic churches during our travels.
Well, don’t forget to visit Loretto Chapel when you go to Santa Fe, NM.
Always love to hear the stories behind the various places I visit. I think this staircase looks really cool, but after knowing the story behind it, I think it’s absolutely fascinating! If I’m ever in the area, I’ll definitely have to swing by here!
Yes, do stop there when you are in the area.
What a beautiful staircase. One must admire the craftsmanship of carpenters who made it. No nails & no support – amazing.
Beautiful spiral staircase. Such a lovely story associated with it.
I agree! I would also add this to my itinerary. Religious monuments are usually on top of my list when I’m thinking of things to see.
Great! Hope you will make it there one day.
The staircase is so beautiful! The spirals seemed perfect. But the story behind it is even more interesting. Miracles do happen everyday. 😀
I agree. Miracles do happen everyday.
What a beautiful and intriguing story! I love learning little details like that. That spiral staircase is stunningly beautiful!
Yes, an impressive staircase in a beautiful chapel! I’m glad our friend told us about the chapel.
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Loretto Chapel
Price & Hours
- Facilities 2.5
- Atmosphere 3.5
The Loretto Chapel is known for its so-called miraculous staircase, which creates two 360-degree turns as it climbs 22 feet to the choir loft. The stairway is said to have been built by a wandering carpenter after the chapel itself was completed in 1878. According to the chapel, the carpenter used wooden pegs (not nails) and the staircase itself has no visible means of support. Other features of the neo-Gothic church – which is just 25 feet by 75 feet – include trefoil arches, buttresses and stained-glass windows imported from France.
Though they note that the chapel is small, visitors enjoyed seeing and learning about the remarkable staircase. However, a few said a stop inside is not worth the $5 admission fee, noting that there are several interesting churches to visit nearby that do not charge an entrance fee.
Located on the Santa Fe National Historic Trail, the chapel is open every day (except Christmas) from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. However, as a popular spot for weddings and other private events, it might not always be accessible to visitors during those hours. Admission is $5 for adults and $3 for youths ages 7 to 17; it's free for kids 6 and younger. Check the website before your visit to make sure the chapel is open to the public. A gift shop carries various souvenirs and religious items.
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Since the city's founding in 1610, the Santa Fe Plaza has been its cultural hub. Today, surrounded by numerous centuries-old buildings like the Palace of the Governors , the plaza continues to be the epicenter of Santa Fean affairs, from live music to September's Santa Fe Fiesta. The plaza, which is a National Historic Landmark, hosts Indian and Spanish markets yearly, in addition to concerts and community gatherings. Any night of the week, the plaza is buzzing with activity with people enjoying restaurants, perusing galleries and checking out souvenir shops. Save a little money to do some shopping while here: Santa Fe Plaza is full of vendors selling authentic Native American items like jewelry, textiles and pottery (just be wary of the plaza's inflated prices).
Visitors say you have to make a point to stop by the Santa Fe Plaza to experience the lively atmosphere, noting that there always seems to be something going on, whether it's a parade, a market or a festival. Recent travelers also suggested taking time to browse the various shops around the plaza, but do warn things seemed a little overpriced. Others said it serves as a great jumping-off point for exploring Santa Fe's top attractions, many of which spool out from the plaza.
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Immerse in Adriatic beauty: Croatia & Slovenia Pilgrimage - May 6 - 15, 2024 Witness the sites of 5 Apparitions: Netherlands, Belgium, Germany & Switzerland - April 12 - 23, 2024 Explore France’s beautiful Catholic Shrines: Great Shrines of France - June 3 - 15, 2024 Northern Spain & much more: Fatima, Lourdes & Northern Spain - Aug 31 - Sep 13, 2024
- 1-800-206-Tour (8687)
Santa Fe, New Mexico
United states pilgrimage, cathedral basilica of st. francis of assisi, & santa fe area.
*Airfare can be arranged for groups*
*Request a Special Group Price for any date (minimum 15)*
Spiritual Leader:
Group coordinator helen zec, december 5 - 10, 2019, cathedral basilica of st. francis of assisi & santa fe area, santa fe · loretto chapel · el santuario de chimayo · santuario de guadalupe.
Rome (Pope Francis) · Montecassino · San Giovanni Rotondo (St. Padre Pio) · Monte Sant’ Angel (View incorrupt body of St. Padre Pio) · Lanciano (Eucharistic Miracle) · Loreto (Holy House) · Assisi (St. Francis) · Gubbio · La Verna
- What's Included
- Day-by-Day Itinerary
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- Destination Information
Meet us in New Mexico for several spiritual days in some of Santa Fe's most beautiful Catholic Churches and Shrines! Santa Fe is Spanish for "Holy Faith" making it the perfect destination for a short American Pilgrimage. Visit the Loretto Chapel, a former Roman Catholic church that is now a museum. Here you will see the Miraculous Stairway, whose construction the Sisters of Loretto attribute to the work of St. Joseph. In Chimayo, located west of the Sangre de Cristo ("Blood of Christ") Mountains, see the Shrine of Our Lord of Esquipulas. This Shrine is also referred to as the "Lourdes of America" because pilgrims have reported healings from the Holy Dirt here. Celebrate Mass at the beautiful Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi, the mother church for the Archdiocese of Santa Fe. Soak up the sun, and draw nearer to your faith on a beautiful Pilgrimage in Santa Fe!
Any Questions? Contact:
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why travel with 206 Tours
Additional information, view printable flyer.
Your trip includes
- Round-trip airfare from NY or your local airport, plus add-ons * or book without airfare (land only option)
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- Hotel accommodations (or similar) in double occupancy ~ 3 nights: Hyatt Place Santa Fe, Santa Fe
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- Base Price: 2 Travellers in 1 Room: Queen or King Bed or 2 Twin beds
- Optional - Additional Cost: ◦ Single Room : No Roomate ₽62,293.50 (RUB) ◦ Triple Room : Upon Request
- Breakfast and Dinner daily
- Wine with dinners
- Transportation by air-conditioned motor coach
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- Sightseeing and admissions fees as per itinerary
- Mass daily & Spiritual activities
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Day 1: Arrive Santa Fe
Upon arrival, meet driver for your transfer to the hotel for check in. Enjoy some free time, this evening meet your group in the lobby of your hotel for a movie, Mass and dinner.
Day 2: Loretto Chapel - Abiquiu (Benedictine Monastery)
Following breakfast at the hotel, our first stop will be at the Loretto Chapel with the Miraculous Staircase of St. Joseph. The Chapel is a former Roman Catholic Church that is now used as a museum. The Sisters of Loretto credited St. Joseph with its construction. It has been the subject of legend, and the circumstances surrounding its construction and its builder were considered miraculous by the Sisters of Loretto. The Miraculous Staircase was built by a mysterious carpenter that no one has ever seen, but Sisters of Loreto claimed that it was St. Joseph. It is said that the entire construction of it is simply "impossible." It was built without any nails or glue, it lacks any central support and according to many, it should have collapsed the very first moment someone used it. We will continue to Abiquiu, a small town located in northern New Mexico. Abiquiu means "wild choke cherry place" in the Tewa language. The community is also called Santo Tomas de Abiquiu and the Pueblo of Santo Tomas de Abiquiu. While here we will visit the Benedictine Monastery of Christ in the Desert. From its beginnings, the monastery has followed the Benedictine life according to the Rule of St. Benedict with no external apostolates. Return to Santa Fe, for dinner at a local restaurant for dinner. Hotel for overnight.
Day 3: Santa Fe (Santuario de Guadalupe, San Miguel Mission and the Cathedral Basilica of St Francis of Assisi)
We will have breakfast at the hotel and proceed to our visit of Cristo Rey Church. Next, we continue to Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi for Mass. The Cathedral of Saint Francis of Assisi was officially elevated to a Basilica by Pope Benedict XVI on October 4, 2005. Following Mass, we will enjoy lunch on our own. Then, we will visit and explore San Miguel Mission. San Miguel Mission was established on July 25, 1797, by the Franciscan order. "The Oldest Church" in the continental United States is a site chosen specifically due to the large number of Salinan Indians who inhabited the area, whom the Spanish priests wanted to evangelize. Our group will walk to Nuestra Senora de Guadalupe which is one of the most historic Catholic Shrines in Santa Fe. Upon our return to the hotel, we will stop at the cross of martyrs. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and overnight at the hotel.
Day 4: Santa Fe - Return Home
Enjoy your last breakfast at the hotel. Say "farewell" to your fellow pilgrims with new memories. Check out of the hotel and continue to Santa Fe airport for your return flight(s) home.
Special Clergy Discount
Discount is offered to ordained clergy in the Roman Catholic Church: deacons, priests, or bishops belonging to the diaconate, the presbyterate, or the episcopate, respectively as well, as Catholic Sisters.
Why buy "With Airfare" from 206 Tours
- 1000’s of flights are being cancelled. 206 Tours will assist getting you to your destination.
- Your transfer will be waiting for you upon arrival, even if your flights are rescheduled.
- In the event your tour is not operating we will refund you all your money back or provide a full credit
- Your seats will be assigned according to your request (most online fares do not include seat assignment appox. $300)
- If you need to travel few days prior or stay few days later, make a stop-over, we will arrange it for you.
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- With many flight cancellations and overbookings, we feel that you should know: If your flight is cancelled - 206 Tours will not be able to assist you.
- In order to guarantee your arrival and departure transfer, we need your detailed flight arrival / departure by 45 days prior, Any changes within 45 -3 days prior, additional transfer cost may apply.
- For changes in arrival / departure within 3 days of departure, we will not be able to rebook your transfer and you will need to make your own way to / from hotel or airport at your own cost
- Often times low online fares, do not include seat assignments ($300 approx.). It will be a challenge to get a good seat assigned at the airport.
- If you book your own airfare , travel insurance provided by 206 Tours will not reimburse expenses caused by your flight changes.
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Post stay - overnight hotel & breakfast, would like to stop over in europe.
Let us know at time of registration, we will reschedule your airline reservations pending availability at no additional fee (these options will be available to you when you register online). Let us know if you need assistance with pre or post stay at hotel. Simply Contact 206 Tours: 800-206-TOUR (8687) or [email protected]
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Let us know at the time of registration if you would like to arrive earlier, or stay later, than the scheduled tour dates, and pending availability, we will change your airline reservations accordingly, at no additional cost. Pre- and/or post-stays at the hotel will cost an additional fee. These options should be available to you when registering online, or simply contact us: [email protected]
About your trip
- Loretto Chapel
- El Santuario de Chimayo
- Santuario de Guadalupe
About Rome:
This Pilgrimage will feature stops to some of the most important Catholic Shrines in New Mexico. Visit several prominent Cathedrals and Basilica’s that played a huge role in the history of Catholicism in the United States.
We promise to do all within our power to assist you with any questions or concerns you may have. Please feel free to contact us, please note should any problems arise during your trip you should first contact your local emergency contact in your destination country or the 206 Tours.
1-800-206-Tour (8687) | [email protected]
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Loretto Chapel
Built in 1878 for the Sisters of Loretto, this tiny Gothic chapel is famous as the site of St Joseph's Miraculous Staircase, a spiraling and apparently unsupported wooden staircase added by a mysterious young carpenter who vanished without giving the astonished nuns his name. The chapel is no longer consecrated and can be rented for (nondenominational) weddings.
207 Old Santa Fe Trail
Get In Touch
505-982-0092
https://www.lorettochapel.com
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Loretto chapel tours.
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Visit Loretto Chapel
The origin of the helix-shaped staircase in the 19th-century Loretto Chapel continues to baffle historians more than a century after its construction. The Sisters of Loretto and the site’s many visitors consider the enigmatic construction of the stairs a miracle. Others offer more practical explanations. The former church, which is of Gothic Revival design, is now primarily used as a wedding chapel and a museum for the staircase.
Try to solve the mystery of the spiral staircase. No one is sure who built the stairs or where that person found the non-native lumber to make them. They reach the choir loft, which is 22 feet (6.7 meters) above the main hall. A miraculous legend regarding the stairs reveals the popular belief that St. Joseph built them. There are also several non-spiritual theories.
Admire the innovative double-helix design of the stairs. Note the two 360-degree turns and the lack of a visible support. Listen to the recording playing in the museum that tells the complete story of the alleged miracle.
See the elegant façade of the former church. Appreciate its gothic characters, such as spires, buttresses and a rose window. View the stained-glass windows. Visit the gift shop for souvenirs.
The mysterious staircase is the principal reason visitors flock to the chapel. It has been the subject of many television documentaries and movies. The building itself was completed in 1878. There is a small entrance fee for adults but admission is free for young children.
The Loretto Chapel is close to the Cathedral Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi in the center of the city of Santa Fe. Look for many other landmarks in the area, such as Canyon Road, where the art galleries are located, and a plethora of green parks. Get to the center of the city by arriving at the Santa Fe Depot Rail Runner Station.
Plan a trip to see Loretto Chapel
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Reviews of loretto chapel, 5/5 - excellent.
Beautiful chapel. It is very small which is fine but we expected more for our admission fee. It's worth seeing once but it's a quick visit.
Wonderful place to visit
We just saw the outside, it doesn't say this on their website, but it costs $5 per adult and $3 per child to get in.
2/5 - Disappointing
I visited years ago and this was absolutely amazing but now the area is so congested and the parking is horrendous. I really wanted to take my grandson to see this but after driving around for 45 minutes we finally gave up.
The Loretto Chapel as well as the other half a dozen churches and old missions were worth seeing. Incredible art and achitecture
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Tickets & prices Loretto Chapel
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Admission prices & discounts for tickets to Loretto Chapel in Santa Fe
The following overview lists the admission prices and various discounts and discount codes for a visit to Loretto Chapel in Santa Fe . All prices are displayed per age group or reduced rate group. You can also directly book your discounted online ticket for the Loretto Chapel here, if available, or make a reservation to reserve a timeslot if applicable.
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Loretto Chapel: The Miraculous Staircase & Chapel
Loretto Chapel , located in Old Town Santa Fe, New Mexico, is a historic landmark that has been attracting visitors from all over the world for over 150 years.
Built-in the late 19th century, the chapel is known for its unique spiral staircase, which has been the subject of countless legends, myths, and mysteries.
According to the story, the staircase was built by a mysterious carpenter who appeared out of nowhere and disappeared without a trace after completing his work. The Loretto Chapel stairway, which has no visible means of support, has been the subject of much speculation and debate over the years, with some people claiming that it was built by a divine hand.
Despite numerous attempts to explain the staircase’s construction, no one has been able to come up with a definitive answer.
Today, Loretto Chapel is a popular Santa Fe attraction, and beautiful at that. Visitors can marvel at the chapel’s stunning architecture and intricate details, including the stunning stained glass windows and the ornate altar.
Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply someone looking for a unique and memorable experience, Loretto Chapel is a must while in Santa Fe.
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Loretto Chapel Santa Fe
Historical Background
In 1850, the Vicariate of New Mexico was established under the first Bishop of the Territory, Bishop Jean Baptiste Lamy, which marked the beginning of the Loretto Chapel story.
Recognizing the need to provide education for girls in the Territory, Bishop Lamy appealed to Catholic teaching orders to establish schools specifically for girls. The Sisters of Loretto answered the call and sent six sisters to establish the Loretto Academy.
However, since the Territory of New Mexico had recently been under Mexican rule, the six sisters had to learn Spanish before embarking on their journey. After a challenging trip, the Mother Superior passed away, and the sisters finally arrived in Santa Fe in 1853 and opened their school.
By 1873, the Sisters were able to start the construction of a chapel, which they named the Chapel of Our Lady of Light. It was designed by the same French architect and builders as Saint Francis Cathedral Basilica, and modeled after Archbishop Lamy’s favorite Sainte Chapelle in Paris.
Loretto Chapel was constructed as a stunning Gothic Revival-style chapel and took just under a year to complete. It was consecrated on April 25, 1878, in honor of St. Joseph.
Loretto Chapel Santa Fe quickly became a popular destination for Catholic pilgrims and visitors to Santa Fe, thanks to its stunning stained glass windows, intricate and delicate woodwork, and impressive, detailed altar.
Over the years, the Loretto Chapel has been used for a variety of purposes, including as a chapel for the nearby Loretto Academy, which was founded by the Sisters of Loretto in 1853. Today, the chapel is open to visitors from around the world, who come to marvel at its beauty and learn about its rich history as well as wedding ceremonies.
Loretto Chapel Staircase
The Loretto Chapel staircase is a masterpiece of carpentry and architecture that has fascinated visitors for over a century. The staircase, which has no visible means of support, was built by a mysterious carpenter who appeared in Santa Fe in the late 19th century.
Despite extensive research, the identity of the builder remains a mystery to this day.
According to legend, the Sisters of Loretto prayed to St. Joseph, the patron saint of carpenters, for a solution to their problem of accessing the choir loft.
Soon after, the nun’s prayers were answered, and were told that a carpenter would arrive to build the staircase.
The carpenter arrived, finished his mysterious masterpiece, and he disappeared without asking for payment or leaving any indication of how he had built the staircase.
Some speculated that the builder Loretto Chapel stairway was a master carpenter from Europe who had come to the United States to work on the railroads. Others believe that he was a reclusive rancher who had a talent for carpentry.
Some even claim that he was an angel sent by Our Lady of Light to help the Sisters of Loretto.
But why was this miraculous staircase in Santa Fe so mysterious?
The Loretto Chapel Stairway is made entirely of wood, with no visible means of support. It consists of two complete 360-degree turns and has no central pole or support beam. The inner stringer of the staircase is also a single piece of wood, which adds to the structural complexity of the staircase.
The staircase is mysteriously made with simple tools, and wooden pegs and has no nails or screws holding it together, which makes the stairway much more curious because of its stability and has remained sturdy for over 100 years,
The steps are also unusually shallow, which makes the staircase appear to be more of a spiral than a traditional staircase and the weight of the Loretto Chapel stairway rests on the bottom stair.
The design of the Loretto staircase is a helix, meaning that it forms a spiral around a central axis., it has no central support with two complete 360-degree turns. The staircase has 33 steps, which is significant in Christian symbolism as represents the age of Jesus at the time of his crucifixion.
Despite its lack of visible support, the staircase has been standing for over 100 years and continues to amaze visitors to this day.
While the true identity of the carpenter remains a mystery, the Miraculous Staircase is a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of the unknown builder. It is also a testament to the power of faith and belief in the divine.
The Loretto Chapel staircase is unique in its design and construction, and its origins are shrouded in mystery.
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Loretto Chapel-Architectural Features
Loretto Chapel is a marvel of Gothic Revival architecture, which is evident in its many stunning features. From its intricate stained glass windows to its towering buttresses, the chapel is a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of its builders.
One of the most notable features of Loretto Chapel is its stunning stained glass windows. These windows, which were imported from France, depict scenes from the life of Christ and the Virgin Mary. The vibrant colors and intricate designs of these windows are truly breathtaking and add a sense of beauty and reverence to the chapel.
In addition to its stained glass windows, Loretto Chapel also features a series of towering buttresses that support the weight of the building. These buttresses are a common feature of Gothic Revival architecture and serve both a practical and aesthetic purpose.
Inside the chapel, visitors will find a beautiful altar that serves as the focal point of the space. The Loretto altar is adorned with the most intricate carvings and decorations that add to the overall beauty of the chapel.
The design of Loretto Chapel is often compared to that of Sainte-Chapelle in Paris, which is known for its stunning Gothic architecture and intricate stained glass windows. While the two buildings share many similarities, Loretto Chapel is unique in its own right.
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Experience Loretto Chapel Santa Fe
Visiting the Loretto Chapel Santa Fe is an unforgettable experience for tourists. The chapel is located in the heart of Santa Fe, making it easily accessible for visitors coming from different parts of the city. The chapel’s location also allows tourists to explore other attractions in the area, such as the Santa Fe National Historic Trail, Santa Fe Plaza, and downtown Santa Fe .
Upon admission, tourists are greeted with a warm welcome from the staff who are always ready to assist with any questions or concerns. The admission fee is reasonable, and visitors can take advantage of the opportunity to shop for souvenirs at the chapel’s gift shop.
The atmosphere inside the chapel is serene, and visitors can take a moment to appreciate the chapel’s unique architecture and religious significance. The chapel is known for its spiral staircase, which has no visible means of support and is believed to have been constructed by St. Joseph himself.
Couples looking for a romantic setting will find the chapel’s peaceful ambiance perfect for taking pictures and making memories. The chapel’s beauty also makes it a popular venue for weddings and other special occasions.
After touring the chapel, tourists can explore the local restaurants in the area, which offer a variety of cuisines to suit different tastes. For those looking to extend their stay in Santa Fe, the city offers a range of accommodation options.
The Loretto Chapel Santa Fe is a must-visit destination for tourists who want to experience the rich history and culture of Santa Fe. The Loretto Santa Fe’s unique architecture, serene atmosphere, and friendly staff make it a memorable experience for visitors.
Loretto Chapel Admission Fee :
Adult Admission: $5 Seniors 65+: $4 Youth 7-17: $3 Children under 7: free
Monday 9:30 am – 4:30 pm Tuesday 9:30 am – 4:30 pm Wednesday 9:30 am – 4:30 pm Thursday 9:30 am – 4:30 pm Friday 9:30 am – 4:30 pm Saturday 9:30 am – 4:30 pm Sunday 9:30 am – 4:30 pm
This post may contain affiliate links. I may receive a small commission if a qualified link is used at no cost or obligation to you ever. Additionally, I am an Amazon Affiliate Partner. I may receive a commission if a qualifying link is used.
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Loretto Chapel – Santa Fe, New Mexico
The Trek Details
The Trek in a snapshot
Santa Fe, New Mexico
Managing Agency
Private ownership
There are entrance fees
Yes, in museum
Not allowed
Trail Condition
Easy concrete paths
Loretto Chapel and the staircase
No water allowed in chapel
Best Season
Time required.
Less than 15 minutes
Parking Elevation
Summit elevation, elevation difference.
Trek Planner Maps
Trail map .
GPS Coordinates
Loretto Chapel: 35°41’8.25″N, 105°56’15.77″W
Experience. Discover. Explore.
Follow along on our adventure then go out on your own!
While on a family trip, we spent a full day walking around the downtown Santa Fe New Mexico area and went to several historic churches including the Loretto Chapel.
You enter the chapel on the right side where you pay a small fee (I think it was like $3 per person or something around that when we came in early April). The staff is very friendly and answered all my questions. I grabbed several free hand-outs which described the architecture and history and went inside.
One of the reasons why this chapel is so well known is because of the spiral staircase (the “Miraculous Staircase”) on the inside that leads to the choir loft. The staircase has a remarkable story and I will only paraphrase it here. The story is that the chapel was lacking a staircase to the loft and a traditional staircase would be too large for the small chapel. The nuns prayed and one day a man showed up and offered to build them the staircase. He used only a few tools and within several months he built the entire spiral staircase which stands without any center supports. After he built the staircase the man disappeared. To this day, no one knows who built the staircase but some of the witnesses claim it was St. Joseph himself.
The staircase is absolutely beautiful to see. You aren’t allowed to go up the stairs but you can get right up and see the intricate details and craftsmanship of the staircase. There is an audio tour that is on a continuous loop which talks about the chapel and staircase. We stayed about 30 minutes listening and enjoyed sitting in the quiet chapel despite there being several dozen people inside of it.
Here are some more pictures of the front of the chapel. It is still used to this day for sacramental services, tours and even wedding ceremonies.
When we were done, we went through the museum checked out the gift shop and went back outside.
Personal Thoughts
The Loretto Chapel was a great place to see while in Santa Fe. It isn't the typical high adrenaline adventure that I am usually participating in but I still enjoyed every minute of it.
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Season: March 24th through October 31. See "hours". WEATHER PERMITTING. Enjoy our open-sided tram tours of historic downtown Santa Fe and neighboring areas within an approxixmate 2 mile radius. See Santa Fe as only the best tour guides can show it with Santa Fe's oldest and finest tour company. Learn about the history, art, landmarks and architecture of the oldest capital in the U.S. No reservations required. Click for details.
Website: http://www.toursofsantafe.com/schedule.html
Address: 109 E. San Francisco St. Santa Fe, NM 87501 MAP
Runs Seasonally between March 24th thru October.
See below for departure times.
Daily From opposite La Fonda Hotel at 109 E. San Francisco St: Departs: 10:30 am, 12:30 pm, and 2:30 pm.
(Loretto stop is only being used on Sat/Sun. Please use La Fonda stop weekdays and weekends).
Adults: $25 Children under 12 (with parent): $15
Our historic tours leave from opposite La Fonda , the historic downtown Santa Fe hotel on E. San Francisco St at the corner of the Plaza, and from outside the Loretto Chapel on Old Santa Fe Trail, three times a day (see 'hours').
Tickets can be purchased from the tour guide. No reservations are required.
Our burgundy and white open-air trams are a familiar sight in Santa Fe, whether on the road or parked near the historic Loretto Chapel.
Just come to the departure location of your choice about fifteen minutes before departure time.
Currently only servicing the La Fonda Stop 7 days 10:30am, 12:30pm and 2:30pm. (From Loretto Chapel 207 Old Santa Fe Trail: Departs: 10 am, noon, and 2 pm, on weekends only, currently)
From opposite La Fonda Hotel at 109 E. San Francisco St: Departs: 10:30 am, 12:30 pm, and 2:30 pm seven days a week.
We also specialize in private and group tour packages that can be customized according to your group's needs. Call for details and MENTION SANTA FE SELECTION when you call.
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Are you planning a visit to the capital of Russia and looking for the best Moscow tours? From Red Square to the Kremlin and from world-class art to fairytale buildings, Moscow is an enchanting city that offers plenty of excitement and elegance. Its history dates back more than 800 years, and there is culture in abundance for visitors to immerse themselves in.
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3 – Guided Tour of the Kremlin
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- Moscow walking tours
5 – Night Tour of Moscow
When the sun sets, the fun begins – and it all starts with a night tour of Russia’s most famous city. The beauty of Moscow comes into full effect after hours, as iconic buildings like St Basil’s Cathedral illuminate against the night sky. Other locations on this tour include the Moscow River and the Ukraine Hotel, which is a landmark skyscraper that was constructed during the era of Stalin.
6 – Sergiev Posad Day Trip
One of the best Moscow tours that take you outside of the city, the Sergiev Posad day trip provides the opportunity to see The Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is the spiritual centre of the Russian Orthodox Church. It’s made up of a number of different buildings that include the blue domes of the Cathedral of the Assumption, Church of St. Sergius and the Bell Tower.
- Sergiev Posad day trips from Moscow
7 – City Sightseeing Moscow Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour with Optional Cruise
If your time in Moscow is limited, this hop-on, hop-off bus tour is ideal – and it even features an optional cruise on the river. Choose between a 2 and 3-day ticket and see famous landmarks like Red Square, the Kremlin and the Bolshoi Theatre from an open-top panoramic bus with informative audio commentary. Take your experience to the next level by upgrading to a boat tour.
- Moscow hop on hop off bus tours
8 – Guided Tour of the Tretyakov Gallery
As one of the world’s most important galleries, the Tretyakov Gallery is a must-see for any art lovers and is one of the best Moscow tours for culture vultures. Learn about the masterworks of Pablo Tretyakov with a guided tour and discover the secrets behind the paintings. Other noticeable artists on view include Fedotov, Vasnetsov, Rokotov and Kiprenski, who is the author of the famous “Portrait of Alexander Pushkin”.
- Tretyakov Gallery tours
9 – Alternative Moscow: 2-Hour Walking Tour
See a different side of Moscow with this 2-hour alternative tour. An expert guide will take you around quirky streets, suburbs and squares while as your veer away from the traditional tourist hotspots. Highlights include a ride on the famous “Annushka” tram and a visit to the neighbourhood of Khitrovka, which was once known as the criminal district of the city.
10 – St.Basil’s Cathedral and Red Square: Private Tour and Ticket
Combine two of Moscow’s biggest attractions with a visit to Red Square and St.Basil’s Cathedral. Admire the beautiful architecture of St.Basil’s Cathedral from inside and out, before wandering Red Square and learn about the soldiers, farmers and revolutionaries that all called this famous square their home. Round things off with the changing of the guard at Alexander Garden.
- Red Square tours
11 – Bunker-42 Cold War Museum Guided Tour
Moscow is notorious for the Cold War, which lasted for about 45 years between 1945 and 1990. Head to the world-famous Bunker-42, located 65 meters below ground level, and learn about the storied past. Visit rooms and passages that were set up to shelter 3,000 people in case of nuclear attack and discover other sections, such as the equipment room and the war-proof telecommunications system.
- Bunker-42 Cold War Museum tours
12 – Architecture Tour of Moscow’s Metro and Kolomenskoye Estate
Combine the beauty of the metro stations with the Kolomenskoye Estate and see some of Moscow’s grandest sights. After visiting the elegant metro stations, it’s time to go to the Kolomenskoye Estate, which is filled with UNESCO-listed sites that are dedicated to Tsar Peter the Great.
- Kolomenskoye tours
13 – Tour of Soviet Moscow
Unpick the history of the USSR with one of the best Moscow tours for discovering Soviet Moscow. Starting at Monument to the Conquerors of Space, a tribute to the success of the Soviet space programme, the tour includes historical landmarks and interesting tidbits about Soviet Russia. There is also a visit to the All-Russia Exhibition Centre (VDNKh), a site that was constructed under the aegis of the USSR in tribute to state achievements.
14 – Moscow: 2.5-Hour Luxury River Cruise with Dining Option
Sail down the Moscow River on this 2.5 hour tour that provides a different perspective of the city and includes landmark sights. The boat features two decks and has panoramic views as well as free Wi-Fi access. Attractions along the route include Ukraine hotel, Sparrow Hills, Christ the Saviour Cathedral, Crimean Bridge, St. Basil’s Cathedral, Zaryadye Park and more.
- Moscow boat tours
15 – Izmailovo Market and Vodka Museum Tour
Visit the museum of Vodka and gain insight into one of Russia’s most famous exports and head to the Izmailovo antique and handicraft market to find a gem or two. The tour starts with Izmailovo market, which features the iconic matryoshka dolls, fur hats and amber jewellery. Next up is a trip to the Museum of Vodka, where you will discover a distillery that dates back to the 15th century.
- Izmailovo market tours
16 – Súzdal and Vladímir Day Tour
Discover Russia’s famous “Golden Ring” on this tour of two medieval cities outside of Moscow. The historic city of Vladimir is first up with its Golden Gate, which is an ancient city-fortress that dates back to the 13th century. Next up is the neighbouring town of Suzdal, which features historic architecture and the Kremlin, where you can see its striking white walls topped with blue domes.
- Suzdal & Vladimir tours from Moscow
17- Moscow Food Tasting & Walking Tour
Sample the unique flavours of Moscow with this food tour that lasts for 3 hours and features more than 15 different food and drink tastings. Weave in and out of small alleys in the city centre while enjoying the best food spots in town. See Moscow like a local while trying classic dishes from local breakfast haunts, bustling markets, the oldest monastery in Moscow, and dumpling cafes where you can taste authentic dumplings and enjoy local coffee.
- Moscow food tours
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Loretto Chapel 207 OLD SANTA FE TRAIL SANTA FE, New Mexico 87501 (505) 982-0092 [email protected]. Get directions. Monday 9:30 am - 4:30 pm Tuesday 9:30 am - 4:30 pm Wednesday 9:30 am - 4:30 pm Thursday 9:30 am - 4:30 pm Friday 9:30 am ...
Welcome to Loretto Chapel. Come visit one of the most special places in all of New Mexico. At the Loretto Chapel, we take pride in our unique history and the joy we have brought into the lives of many a bride and groom. Those who step foot inside our holy sanctuary find it hard to leave. There's something special about our little chapel, and we ...
Adults $25, Children under 12 with parent $15. Tours last approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes (8-10 miles loop) Santa Fe's most popular sightseeing company since 1992, Loretto Line has recruited the best seasoned tour guides in Santa Fe. Our team of guides has been chosen for their enthusiasm, personality, academic backgrounds and professional ...
The Loretta Line Tours takes you around Santa Fe, NM. From Loretto Chapel* 207 Old Santa Fe Trail: Departs: 10 am, noon, and 2 pm, seven days a week. From La Fonda Hotel on the southeast corner of the Plaza: Departs: 10:30 am, 12:30 pm, and 2:30 pm seven days a week.
From Loretto Chapel: Loretto Line Tours depart from Loretto Chapel at 10am, Noon, and 2pm Thursday through Monday. 201 Old Santa Fe Trail. Corner of Old Santa Fe Trail and Water Street. From La Fonda Hotel: Loretto Line Tours depart from La Fonda Hotel at 10:30am, 12:30pm, and 2:30pm Thursday through Monday.
Loretto Chapel. 4.5. 5,209 reviews. #11 of 365 things to do in Santa Fe. Historic SitesReligious Sites. Closed now. 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM. Write a review.
This glorious Gothic-Revival style chapel was completed in 1878 and modeled after King Louis IX's Sainte Chapelle in Paris. The church was built for the Sisters of the Loretto, who established a school in Santa Fe in 1853. According to legend, St. Joseph the Carpenter had a role in the building of the chapel's Miraculous Staircase, constructed between 1877 and 1881 with two 360-degree turns ...
Next to the chapel is the Loretto Chapel Gift Shop where you can find things like chapel souvenirs, rosaries, Christmas ornaments, Christmas decorations with New Mexico designs, home decorations, Christian jewelry, and other religious items. Address: 207 Old Santa Fe Trail, Santa Fe, NM 87501 (505) 982-0092.
Enjoy our open-sided tram tours of historic downtown Santa Fe and neighboring areas within an approxixmate 2 mile radius. See Santa Fe as only the best tour guides can show it with Santa Fe's oldest and finest tour company. ... (From Loretto Chapel 207 Old Santa Fe Trail: Departs: 10 am, noon, and 2 pm, on weekends only, currently) From ...
The Loretto Line can pick you up at two different locations in downtown Santa Fe: La Fonda Hotel (San Francisco Street entrance), located at 100 E. San Francisco St. Loretto Chapel, 201 Old Santa Fe Trail. For the location address click on the icons below. For specific times and other details, please visit our Schedule Page. Two locations for ...
Loretto Chapel is ranked #23 out of 26 things to do in Santa Fe. See pictures and our review of Loretto Chapel. ... New Mexican Flavors Food Tour of the Santa Fe Plaza (329 reviews) from $183.83.
Santa Fe · Loretto Chapel · El Santuario de Chimayo · Santuario de Guadalupe. Meet us in New Mexico for several spiritual days in some of Santa Fe's most beautiful Catholic Churches and Shrines! ... Why buy "With Airfare" from 206 Tours. 1000's of flights are being cancelled. 206 Tours will assist getting you to your destination.
Loretto Chapel. Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA, North America. Santa Fe. Built in 1878 for the Sisters of Loretto, this tiny Gothic chapel is famous as the site of St Joseph's Miraculous Staircase, a spiraling and apparently unsupported wooden staircase added by a mysterious young carpenter who vanished without giving the astonished nuns his name.
The origin of the helix-shaped staircase in the 19th-century Loretto Chapel continues to baffle historians more than a century after its construction. The Sisters of Loretto and the site's many visitors consider the enigmatic construction of the stairs a miracle. Others offer more practical explanations. The former church, which is of Gothic ...
The Loretto Chapel is a former Roman Catholic church in Santa Fe, New Mexico, United States, that is now used as a museum and a wedding chapel.. It is known for its unusual helix-shaped spiral staircase (the "Miraculous Stair"). It has been the subject of legend, and the circumstances surrounding its construction and its builder were considered miraculous by the Sisters of Loretto, who ...
The Loretto Chapel, located in Santa Fe, New Mexico, is renowned for its spiral staircase. This remarkable piece of carpentry is a unique feature that sets the chapel apart. The staircase, which is twenty feet high and makes two complete revolutions to reach the triforium, was constructed without nails and is held together by wooden pegs.
The Loretto Chapel Santa Fe is a must-visit destination for tourists who want to experience the rich history and culture of Santa Fe. The Loretto Santa Fe's unique architecture, serene atmosphere, and friendly staff make it a memorable experience for visitors. Loretto Chapel Admission Fee: Adult Admission: $5 Seniors 65+: $4 Youth 7-17: $3
There is an audio tour that is on a continuous loop which talks about the chapel and staircase. We stayed about 30 minutes listening and enjoyed sitting in the quiet chapel despite there being several dozen people inside of it. ... The Loretto Chapel was a great place to see while in Santa Fe. It isn't the typical high adrenaline adventure that ...
5. Bridge to Moscow. 454. City Tours • Cultural Tours. District Central (TsAO) By Charito1967. Our tour guide was the best, very knowledgeable and lots of patience and caring to explain and to help us in all we r... 6. Go Russia Travel Company.
This tour is a perfect choice for those who wish to get to know Moscow in depth. One of the highlights of this package is the KGB history tour which gives an interesting perspective on the Cold War. You will also have time for exploring the city on your own or doing extra sightseeing. $ 941 From/Per person. Details.
Enjoy our open-sided tram tours of historic downtown Santa Fe and neighboring areas within an approxixmate 2 mile radius. See Santa Fe as only the best tour guides can show it with Santa Fe's oldest and finest tour company. ... & From Loretto Chapel stop 207 Old Santa Fe Trail at 10am, 12pm, 2pm. Adults: $25 Children under 12 (with parent): $15.
Our 20 Best Moscow Day Tours of 2022. See all that Moscow has to offer by choosing one or more of our incredible Moscow day tours. Visit Red Square, St. Basil's, the Kremlin or perhaps a vodka museum and the fantastic Moscow metro system, we have it all. Our expert, informative and fun guides will help you get to know Europe's largest city.
6 - Sergiev Posad Day Trip. One of the best Moscow tours that take you outside of the city, the Sergiev Posad day trip provides the opportunity to see The Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is the spiritual centre of the Russian Orthodox Church. It's made up of a number of different buildings that include the ...