Staircases are not only considered an iconic architectural element, but also a symbol of connection between heaven and earth, essential to approaching the divine. Outstanding examples include the massive steps of Egypt's pyramids. In Italy, a simple staircase often becomes a real masterpiece, able to attract many visitors thanks to its unique characteristics.
The historical period from the Renaissance to Baroque has left indelible traces in the history of Italian architecture. Let’s discover some of the most illustrious among them:
Spanish Steps in Rome
This iconic structure, built in the 18th century, is composed of 135 steps and has become the star of many films, most famously Roman Holiday, the 1953 American romantic comedy directed by William Wyler and starring Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck. The Spanish Steps were also chosen as the stage for the Alta Moda Roma, Rome’s Haute Couture runway shows. The architecture is especially beautiful in the spring when vases of colorful azaleas decorate it from top to bottom.
Contarini del Bòvolo Palace Staircase in Venice
A spiral staircase located in a round tower, this architectural wonder is aptly named Bòvolo, which in the Venetian dialect means “snail shell”. It stands in the late Gothic Palazzo in the San Marco district. The facade of the building has a completely different aspect than the other building that makes up the Palazzo. The tower, designed by Giovanni Candi or, according to more recent hypotheses by Giorgio Spavento, gives access to fine loggias that spiral up to the top. After making the 80 steps to the top, visitors are rewarded with a breathtaking view of the city of Venice.
Cathedral of Sant'Andrea in the city of Amalfi
Located on the Amalfi Coast, the Amalfi Duomo, known as Cattedrale di Sant'Andrea, is a Roman Catholic church dedicated to the Apostle Saint Andrew whose relics are kept within. The cathedral has been the seat of the archbishop since 987 and represents the most iconic symbol of the gorgeous Amalfi Coast, dominating the small and picturesque square below that is typically teeming with tourists. The building’s strategic position on a hill at the center of the town allowed it to grant some defense against the many invaders who tried to take over the town in past centuries. The steep and long flight of steps leading to the Duomo is unique to Italian cathedrals. Part of the Duomo is a must-see Cloister of Paradise with a garden in the center.
Bramante’s Staircase in Vatican City
In the Vatican Museums you can discover a unique jewel designed by the architect Donato Bramante and built in 1505. This extraordinary staircase takes the form of a double-helix, thereby allowing people—and horses—to ascend and descend without bumping into each other. This spacious design allowed Pope Julius II to enter his private residence while still in his carriage. The stairway is cited as the inspiration for Antonio da Sangallo the Younger’s design for the double helix passageway at the well of San Patrizio, in Orvieto, Umbria, to solve a similar logistical problem.
Scala Regia del Vignola at Palazzo Farnese in Caprarola
In 1547 Lazio, the architect Vignola created a sumptuous staircase in his unique interpretation of the snail shape, evidently inspired by Bramante’s staircase in the Vatican Palace in Rome. To carry out his project he chose peperino, a gray magmatic stone containing small black spots reminiscent of peppercorns. The thirty double columns rest on the fascia decorated with bas-reliefs. The Antonio Tempesta frescoes, illustrating the stories of the Farnese family, envelope you as you climb the staircase.
Santa Maria del Monte Steps in Caltagirone
Built in 1606 in Sicily, the 142 steps of this famous stairway are encrusted with polychrome ceramic tiles. The steps connect the old part of the city of Caltagirone to the new one, which was built on the upper side. It is flanked by buildings with beautiful balconies and has become the emblem of the city and one of its breathtaking wonders.
Palazzo Mannajuolo Staircase in Naples
Palazzo Mannajuolo is located at 36 Filangieri Street, right in the chic district of Chiaia and next to the Francesco d’Andrea steps. Even though the Palazzo, like many of Naples’ historic palaces, is a private monumental building, one can get permission to admire its inner courtyard and famous spiral staircase. The Baroque style of the façade makes it one of the most appreciated buildings in the Neapolitan city.
Barbara Benzoni
Barbara Benzoni was born in Milan and lives between Rome and Tuscany. She is devoted to USA, the land of courage and innovation. She’s Peter's super-lucky mum and Ale's wife. Cinema, art, good food and only beautiful things are the themes of her existence. With a degree in Italian literature and a Masters in Sports Management she can both enjoys books and basketball matches. In 25 years she has been organizing sport events all over the world and she’s been lucky enough to meet the greatest champs ever. Curiosity in everyday life and people are her drivers. Her personal icon is Mohammed Ali : "It's not bragging if you can back it up".