As my time is winding down here in New Mexico, I’m trying to fit in every tourist-y thing that I haven’t seen yet. The mysterious Loretto Chapel Staircase, located near the Santa Fe Plaza, was on this list.
Legend says that an obscure (and some say unpaid) carpenter built this magnificent structure for the sisters of the chapel. The staircase boasts two 360° degree turns and has no visible means of support. Also, it is said that the staircase is crafted from a previously unknown species of wood and without nails—only wooden pegs.
I can’t say that it looked very mysterious to me, but the staircase has been the subject of many articles, TV specials, and movies including “Unsolved Mysteries” and the television movie titled “The Staircase.” The website says to allow 45 minutes for your visit; I’d say give it about 15.
MORE INFO: www.lorettochapel.com
Enchanted New Mexico 