The 28 marble steps believed to be from Pontius Pilate's praetorium in Jerusalem, which Jesus climbed during his trial. They are now housed in the Pontifical Sanctuary of the Holy Stairs in Rome.
History
According to tradition, Saint Helena brought the stairs from Jerusalem to Rome in 326 AD. They were installed in the Lateran Palace and later moved to their current location across from the Archbasilica of Saint John Lateran. The stairs have been climbed on knees by pilgrims for centuries, including Martin Luther in 1510.
Scientific Investigation
The marble steps show significant wear from centuries of pilgrims climbing on their knees. In 2019, the wooden coverings were removed for the first time in 300 years, revealing the original marble beneath. Stains on the steps are traditionally identified as drops of Christ's blood.
Spiritual Significance
The Holy Stairs are one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Rome. Climbing them on one's knees while meditating on the Passion is a devotional practice associated with a plenary indulgence. They represent Christ's humiliation before Pilate and his journey toward Calvary.
