The Holy Stairs

The 28 Holy Steps

A Journey of Faith and Prayer

According to tradition, Jesus had to climb twenty-eight stairs leading to the throne of Pontius Pilate where He was condemned to death. These steps were later found and brought to Rome in the year 326, where they were known as the Scala Santa.

People began to climb these Holy Stairs on their knees praying and meditating on the Passion of Jesus Christ. In 1956 these twenty-eight steps were built for that same purpose. In 1961 relics of many different saints were placed into each step. These relics are no longer contained in the stairs. Many pilgrims today continue the practice of climbing these Holy Stairs on their knees in prayer and meditation leading to the Cross.

The Holy Stairs

According to tradition, Jesus had to climb 28 stairs to the throne of Pontius Pilate where he was condemned to death. Those steps were later found in Jerusalem and brought to Rome. People began to climb these “Holy Stairs” (as they were called) on their knees, praying and meditating on the Passion of Jesus. The 28 stairs that begin here may be used for the same purpose.

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