Visiting the Loretto Chapel has become part of our routine when we are in the Santa Fe area. Santa Fe has so much history and is a captivating place, and the Loretto Chapel adds to the mystique as the Miraculous Staircase is shrouded in mystery and will leave you filled with awe.
A Little About the Loretto Chapel
The history of the Loretto Chapel dates to 1873, having been built by the Loretto Sisters, who had opened a school in 1853 after Bishop Lamy had sent out a request for a school to be built. The Chapel of Our Lady of Light, as it was then called, was fashioned after a Chapel in Paris, which was of Gothic Revival architecture.
The Mysterious Miraculous Staircase
Unfortunately, the architect for the Loretto Chapel died before access to the choir loft was built. The Sisters knew they needed a staircase. After spending time in prayer, a carpenter showed up to build the staircase. Using simple tools, wooden pegs, and a rare type of wood not native to the area, a spiral staircase was built without a support column. The carpenter then disappeared without letting the Sisters know and without payment. You can read more about the story on their website here.
Visitor Information
The Loretto Chapel welcomes visitors to visit the Chapel and Miraculous Staircase. The Chapel is generally open from 9.30 to 4.30 pm daily; it is a good idea to check their website as these hours could change as they sometimes have weddings and other events. You can find a DVD about the story of the Miraculous Staircase, among other items in their gift shop.
Good to Know
There are restrooms located in the building across the street from the Cathedral Basilica of St Francis of Assisi (a short distance from Loretto Chapel) at La Fonda on the Plaza, located on the left side of the street. You can enter from the parking garage area.
In Conclusion
The Loretto Chapel is located in the heart of downtown Santa Fe and close to the Cathedral Basilica of St Francis of Assisi, the Palace of the Governors and other places of interest. The San Miguel Chapel is within walking distance, although a few blocks.
For those of us who love to explore history and enjoy solitude, Loretto Chapel and the Miraculous Staircase are a great place to visit when in Santa Fe.
