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Loretto Chapel
207 Old Santa Fe Trail, Santa Fe, NM 87501, United States
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yv
Review №1

Historical chapel built in 1853ish!! Stairway build by an unknown carpenter who just disappeared and nobody knew who he was!! Interesting!! first gothic structure this side of the mississippi! Stairs go to choir loft!! Nuns used daily!!

Ru
Review №2

I visited this place recently twice. I am fascinated of the story of how this Miraculous Staircase came about. It is an inspiration especially during difficult times like we are in now with covid19.

St
Review №3

This is truly an amazing piece of architecture. It is well worth the price of admission. I tried to find a seam in the wood work and couldnt see one from the closest distance I could get. It is roped off so you cant walk on or touch the staircase. The alter is also really nice.

Ro
Review №4

Amazing place. The alter was beautiful. The staircase was amazing with all the intricate details, appearing seamless and its history of how it was built was miraculous. When you enter the chapel a recording is playing that explains the history. The adjacent gift shop had all kinds of beautiful religious items that were decently priced. The employees were all very nice and helpful. You could probably spend a good 30 to 45 mins in the chapel and gift shop.

Ch
Review №5

So beautiful and a great place to visit and take in the history!!! Be kind to others. Peace and kindness goes a long way. Safe travels

Tr
Review №6

Too bad they charge for Gods love. Donations would probably make more. Of course it goes unsaid that this place is beautiful and awesome. I wish it was a tad bit less commercialized

Ki
Review №7

A must see in Santa Fe. Beautiful, historic and miraculous little chapel. I feel so blessed to have been able to visit.

IM
Review №8

Fantastic place to see adobe architecture and influences of European design merging through history; all beautiful and inspiring

Gl
Review №9

Didnt actually go inside the chapel but couldnt pass up this opportunity to encourage others to visit the wonderful old town of Santa Fe! I, of course, took several pictures of the church and surrounding buildings and art. I would love to stay a couple days to experience it more fully but that will have to be another trip.

Da
Review №10

A church with a miracle of a staircase. Tourist attraction and history at the same time.

Ni
Review №11

It is a beautiful chapel. Many memories for Sisters here. And now, it is not a real Chapel, because it is a destination for visiting, events and concert, not for worship anymore. First time when I heard that a family bought that and run that for the town of Santa Fe, actually they explored for extending tourism at that place and survive until now. Other hand I would like to say that they are doing good at taking care of that, 5$ for each adult visitor, 3$ for under adult and 4$ for older people. But they did not give any information for visitor, just one booklet for all visitors and you have to pay attention listening during the time you take a look the staircase and whole chapel. I means they will not limit time there, but when you visit a place with many people, you will know to get out for others to see too, it is a beautiful but small space for visitors

Ch
Review №12

Stunning chapel. Seeing the staircase was amazing. For some reason, they never added the table for the new mass(English sacrilegious ritual) and the altar is completely untouched. Beautiful.

Ni
Review №13

I Love the chapel and the history of the church it brings chills down my back when Im in the presence of the holy spirit and a sent worker of GOD.... Amen GOD BLESS IN JESUS CHRIST OUR LORD AND SAVIORS NAME...

Ri
Review №14

This place was great to visit with the history it has.

Br
Review №15

Fascinating and beautiful chapel. Easy walk from anywhere near the square.

An
Review №16

This church is known for the beautiful staircase that was miraculously built without nails. It cost $4 to get into to help maintain the church. They also have a gift store at the exit, which have a lot of items to purchase.

Te
Review №17

Beautiful Chapel with an amazing story. It is a must see, bucket list kind of thing. The story of the staircase is interesting. The stain glass windows are beautiful. There is a recording telling the story of the staircase, the chapel, the stainglass windows and etc. They seemed to have raised the prices since we were there last $4 kids 7+, adults are $5. The Loretto chapel coin machine outside gives the same coin, 1 in shiny gold and 1 in a dull gold. $3 for 1 or 2 for $5, if buying 2, know it is the same just different colors of gold.

Na
Review №18

Ive wanted to visit for years after hearing about the miraculous stair case. So glad we made the trip. The chapel is so humbling and brought me to tears. It was a joyful, spiritual experience, that words cannot adequately express. A definite must if you enjoy spiritual journeys and beautiful places to visit!

Ma
Review №19

Very cute little church. Enter fee is $5 the church is not big, but beautiful.

si
Review №20

I have been a carpenter for over 35 years, I built so many staircases, to many to even remember. I truly thought I could see how they were built, no problem.But these are truly Gods work with no doubt, I was amazed!!!

P
Review №21

Why wouldnt I give this opportunity to see the staircase St. Joseph built 5 stars? Very quaint little church, beautiful statues, there is an atmosphere of awe and holiness here. Gift shop as you exit. Town is so charming, great for tourists to hang out all day. There is a $5.00 admission for adults. Kids and seniors discounted.

Va
Review №22

Definitely a good way to start of 2020. This chapel is a must see! A quaint and quiet place for you to take a rest while youre in Santa Fe.

Tr
Review №23

A must see when in Santa Fe. $5 admission. No parking, most visitors walk from their hotel or park in a public parking area. Beautiful church with the amazing staircase and legend. Sit and listen to the automated recording and admire the staircase and decor of the church. There’s a large gift shop attached as well as access to the Loretto Inn. Highly recommend.

Lu
Review №24

Ok this is nothing new to know . But we all know the story about this old old chapelNow the reason I’m posting this is for tell u that been in this place was amazing and the feeling inside the chapel is incredible. Love it so much and will go back at least every year!

Gi
Review №25

Love the chapel, so beautiful! I wish I couldve stayed longer to see. However, its small and get crowed easily. Its still a must see.

Li
Review №26

It is so beautiful and the story is humbling.

He
Review №27

This isnt a review of the Loretto Chapel. Its a review of the helical staircase. The staircase is beautifully designed and executed, clearly by a highly skilled master carpenter. His ingenuity and skill is all the more impressive since electricity, and therefore power tools were not invented when the staircase was built.This staircase is well worth the reasonable price of admission. I highly recommend it.

Ju
Review №28

Beautiful place to visit, the staircase is just amazing. The church is so peaceful, beautiful and looking at the staircase it just defies explanation! You have to visit at least once.

Ma
Review №29

I paid inside. Tourists were sitting on the benches. A staff member was working on the staircase for preservation and didnt get to enjoy it too closely. I bought a souvenir coin near the gift shop. Paid my respect to the chapel and its a memory I will cherish.

am
Review №30

It was amazing! The audio story helped me remember seeing this story on unsolved mysteries!

Ca
Review №31

Absolutely beautiful and worth the $5. Masks are required and they’re capping the number of people inside so it doesn’t feel super risky - but the line outside moves fast.

Mi
Review №32

Lots of history and beauty. Also a very sacred place, a must see when vacationing in Santa Fe.

Mo
Review №33

Beautiful building inside and out. The story is cool. Would recommend if in the area

Je
Review №34

Spiritual and Historical. The chapel is gorgeous filled with lots of history. More importantly it is physical proof God answers prayers and creates miracles.

Jo
Review №35

Beautiful church and great history. The staircase is beautifully crafted. Perfect 360 degree and no nails. Must see

Sa
Review №36

Beautiful chapel with marvelous history. This is a heavily trafficked site so if you are coming for a peaceful experience, know that it is popular. Of course, the staircase is beautiful and woods cannot describe how incredible it’s build is. Also had a large gift shop if you’re keen on souvenirs.

Lo
Review №37

Beautiful chapel. Entrance fee nominal. There is an audible recording played of the history. Spend time viewing the details of The carvings of the stations of the cross hanging on the walls.

Sc
Review №38

Didnt go inside but its beautiful from the outside.

ma
Review №39

This is a MUST SEE! Its an amazing chapel but very crowded, kind of too much of an a attraction rather than a chapel. Im not sure if they have services there, we might have been there on an off day.

Jo
Review №40

What a beautiful chapel. Well worth the visit. Read about the history of the chapel before you go there.

An
Review №41

Its a neat place, and sure, stop by and see it. I understand about charging money and its not like its an exorbitant amount, but if you have a family it gets a bit steep just to go inside only to find out it is super tiny. I took a nice photo or two and moved along. The gift shop is larger than the chapel, ha. I do have a massive complaint about the older gentleman working the ticket booth. He didnt smile and seemed put off by having to be there when we paid. Then the older group of ladies behind us were going in and one was forced to pull out her ID to prove she was a senior citizen. She assured him she was and laughed. Eventually she found an ID and gave it to him, and it was either not a state or country he was familiar with so he couldnt really validate that she indeed was a senior citizen. I think she ended up getting in, but all that was over giving her a $1 off the already inflated entry fee. Did it really matter that much to put off an entire group of people over something so dumb. Plus, it was wildly obvious that she was a senior citizen. Id say skip this place, there are better places unless you are really hell bent on seeing the stairs.

Ki
Review №42

Beautiful chapel. The staircase is a lovely miracle! They dont know how it was made, how it is supported, and where the wood came from!

Ma
Review №43

Beautiful church and architecture

Jo
Review №44

Beautiful chapel! Would love to do my renewal vows here. The staircase is amazing and I love the story behind it. It is a small fee and worth it. This is a must see. The chapel is privately owned but is respectfully maintained.

Ty
Review №45

Beautiful historic church with incredibly old, stunningly crafted stair case. The unknown carpenter built the freestanding spiral staircase and reportedly left without telling anyone his name. The church is tranquil and a spiritual place to even just visit while spending a day in Sante Fe.Nominal admission fee charged. Open daily.

Ma
Review №46

Beautiful church with a miraculous stairway. 4$ entrance fee is well worth it! The architecture is just gorgeous as is the sacred artwork in the Church. The gift shop has lots of beautiful items for purchase. Also make sure you visit he Basilica of St Francis nearby.

Sm
Review №47

One of the most beautifulest pieces of History I have ever seen! the floating staircase is amazing This is not just a church its the oldest church in history the only one I would ever consider going to!! Im not for the modern day church going up on every block!!!

Er
Review №48

I was intrigued myself after hearing that there is a staircase inside the Loretto Chapel in Santa Fe, New Mexico that is miraculous. Why is it miraculous? According to the chapel’s history, two mysteries surround the spiral stairs: the identity of its carpenter and the physics of its construction.No one know who built the magnificent structure. With two complete spirals and no visible support in the center or side, the staircase design still puzzles experts today.According to the website, the staircase was built without nails—only wooden pegs. Questions also surround the number of stair risers relative to the height of the choir loft and about the types of wood and other materials used in the stairway’s construction.

Ma
Review №49

A must see when in Santa Fe! Miraculous story behind the building of the steps and when you are there you feel in the presence of a higher power. Not expensive and with the money.

Pa
Review №50

I believe in miracles and the power of prayer! The Loretto Chapel is a beautiful piece of art and variety of architecture. The spiralstaircase is a marvel unto itself. A must see when in Santa Fe! Visit the Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi while there.

Ge
Review №51

Worth a visit. I wish they had docents or gave tours as I expect just wandering through you miss a lot of history. The floating stairs are interesting. Good gift shop. Small entrance fee.

Review №52

The chapel is good attractions but no parking, also the shop are pricy there is no restrooms the cathedral is very close you can walk stairs in the chapel are very impressive.

To
Review №53

A marvel of human woodworking... built by reclusive rancher and woodworker Francois-Jean Rochas in 1881.Still, its worth the $5 entrance fee to check out.

Jo
Review №54

Sick a beautiful church with a lot of history.

Da
Review №55

Worth the stop to visit! This is such a special place. You feel something special when in the chapel!

Ja
Review №56

The miraculous stair case has been talked about in my home for the last 40 yrs and I finally got to see it and I was not disappointed. One of my concerns was that the “ private owner” would ruin the historical beauty but they have actually preserved it better than could be hoped for. The only thing that was lacking was the service. The lady up at the ticket counter was pre-occupied on the phone while man in the gift shop flirted around like a 5 year old. All said I will be back some day.

sc
Review №57

Amazing church for the Amazing Papa!

Fe
Review №58

You cant look at it as a Church because its now an attraction the $5.00 entry fee is relatively cheap but can be expensive for a group. Still, if you are in Santa Fe, its one of those must visit type of places.

Ke
Review №59

The Loretto Chapel is known through the legend of the spiral staircase inside. The builder is thought to be, or have been sent by, St. Joseph himself after the nuns prayed a novena. Whatever you believe, it is an architectural marvel for the time it was made, without the use of any nails even. It has since had rails added and the chapel itself is no longer owned by the church. If you love churches and architecture, like I do, you should see this while you are in Santa Fe.

An
Review №60

A must if youre touring Santa Fe! Theres a city tour just outside -- it takes an hour -- definitely the best way to see the area if you love history!

Ne
Review №61

Gorgeously well cared for yet lacking method for social distancing in such a small space so moving through is awkward.

Va
Review №62

Not what I expected. My spirit was peaceful here. Prayed and lit a candle for my grandchildren. I didnt want to leave.

Br
Review №63

In a time when everyone is complaining about something. This chapel reminds all of us to get off the cross because we need the wood. This chapel is a testament to human perseverance and ingenuity. It exemplifies how the spirit guides us to perform the right work at the right time for the betterment of mankind.

Ju
Review №64

Very spiritual and calm. I loved being there.

Va
Review №65

Must see! Entrance fee is about $5 per person as it is no longer owned by the Catholic church. Audio guided tour was available as we walked the small chapel to view the miraculous staircase. Gift shop on exit has plenty of items to choose from!

Au
Review №66

There is no place like this in the world. An important place to stop if your in Santa Fe.

Da
Review №67

Breath taking...my family and I love going here

Do
Review №68

Actually visited and paid the $5 admission due to my fascination with the construction of the spiral staircase. Did not fail me. Definitely worth it. The woodworker in me amazed.

Ri
Review №69

Beautiful chapel though quite small. The staircase to the choir loft was very beautiful and unique. It is a spiral staircase with no central column and has 2 complete turns. The wood is quite beautiful. The stained glass windows were also nice as well as the altar itself. Worth the $5 entrance fee to support the maintenance of the structure.

Na
Review №70

It seems like the builder knew the characteristics of wood very well.It reminds me of a spiral paper ornament that I used to make for the Star Festival in July when childhood.Lorettos Miraculous Staircase, I like this name very much!But moreover, I was so surprised that there is used as a wedding chapel now.

Ad
Review №71

This place was amazing if you are in town stop by and check it out great history

An
Review №72

Nice chapel to check out when you are in Santa Fe.

Ro
Review №73

Beautiful, moving experience

Ni
Review №74

Amazing and spiritual. You feel at peace as you look at the miracle staircase. The giftshops are amazing and the soap shop is definitely something to check out.

ri
Review №75

Me and my wife loved the chapel. We chose it as the place we got married. Could not be happier with Renee and team.

Pa
Review №76

Must see. Super low fee to see. Read up or inform yourself on this story first. Place has a great feel to it. Bookstore gift shop very nice. I got holy water and book marks.Is it a work of wonder? Indeed.

Na
Review №77

Artistic displays of the crucifixion and other details regarding chapel construction

De
Review №78

Spiritual holy place, very interesting construction of stairs and story. Worth seeing.

Ja
Review №79

Beautiful! The staircase has a very intriguing history.

Fr
Review №80

Must see sight in Santa Fe, loved looking at the staircase...

Je
Review №81

The history of mysticism behind the chapel is very unique. It is worth a visit and the required donation to enter. I cant recall how much it is but I think its somewhere between 5 and $10. Plan on it being packed most of the time, but if you are lucky and there is nobody there you can really get fantastic pictures in Panorama. The gift shop that is a joint to it is worth walking through. Even if you are not a Catholic this is a great place to visit if you appreciate history and craftsmanship.

Ni
Review №82

Surreal chapel when you hear the story and sit back to appreciate the view of the stairs. One of my favorite chapels Ive visited. Its close to the center of town and other nearby beautiful churches.

Ly
Review №83

This is a amazing miraculous sight to see. The story behind this chapel and the stairs in it literally have no explanation other than a miracle or a blessing. Either way this is the place where there was stairs made from somebody that the nuns did not know, and there was not one piece of nail to hold the stairs together there was nothing used to hold the stairs together and the only thing the carpenter had with him when he started building the stairs was a couple of tools. The moment you walk into this building its like walking into heaven. The vibe there is free and pure and it gives you Something to Believe In

St
Review №84

This place is beautiful. Only $5 admission. So much beauty and detail in this small chapel

Ka
Review №85

The best part was the photo of the staircase without handrails

Le
Review №86

One of the Best Chapel in United States

Ch
Review №87

Must see if your into old churches. Even if your not into churches you have to appreciate the age and the architecture. I would add this place to a walking tour of Santa Fe.

Je
Review №88

I enjoyed learning about this beautiful little chapel and didnt mind paying the five bucks.

Er
Review №89

What a lovely chapel. And the stairway is amazing. We wondered if they allowed pictures on them during weddings and were told that they do.

Do
Review №90

Beautiful Chapel

Ch
Review №91

This place was pretty cool! I randomly remembered it from a documentary I watched several years ago! We went to the church, but did not pay the $5 to see the famous staircase.. however, the guy at the desk gave us a story about it. I will for sure pay the $5 if I happen to find myself down there again!

St
Review №92

Beautiful chapel with interesting history.

Sm
Review №93

Even without the stunning staircase, the chapel is gorgeous. The stations of the cross are very intricate and the stained glass windows are as lovely as you can expect. Of course however the main attraction is the incredibly unique staircase (which you cannot walk up, but if every visitor could do that there likely wouldnt be a staircase anymore), and I strongly recommend getting there early so as to avoid all the heavy traffic. The manner of entry makes it feel like youre entering a carnival or something, but the chapel itself is well worth it.

Mi
Review №94

The “magical” stair is really nice.

Ar
Review №95

5$ entry, cool story. Beautiful craftman ship.

Je
Review №96

This was a cool stop. What a beautiful chapel and staircase.

Ma
Review №97

Place has gorgeous architect. Be prepared to pay $5 entry fee. I encourage you to sit and listen to the automated story. This was once a consecrated church. Today, it is a historic structure. All religious and holy relics have been removed.

Fr
Review №98

Its a sweet little chapel

Ka
Review №99

Very interesting find. Remarkable little Chapel in the middle of the city. Luckily we walked in as the front desk cashier was explaining the history and mystery of the staircase and chapel. Otherwise, its just another place w stairs. Was a little jumbled inside since it is sick a small chapel and everyone wanted to see the stairs

Su
Review №100

Lovely and stepped in history and mystery. While I understand they may need the funds, it seems out of character to charge an admission fee to a church. There are many in the area, this is the only one that charges.

Information
99 Photos
100 Comments
4.7 Rating
  • Address:207 Old Santa Fe Trail, Santa Fe, NM 87501, United States
  • Site:https://lorettochapel.com/
  • Phone:+1 505-982-0092
Categories
  • Historical place museum
  • Heritage museum
  • Non-denominational church
  • Wedding chapel
Working hours
  • Monday:10am–4pm
  • Tuesday:10am–4pm
  • Wednesday:10am–4pm
  • Thursday:10am–4pm
  • Friday:10am–4pm
  • Saturday:10am–4pm
  • Sunday:10am–4pm
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair-accessible entrance:Yes
Amenities
  • Good for kids:Yes
  • Restaurant:No
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