The Sanctuary of the Holy Stairs….housing the marble steps that Jesus climbed, leading up to the praetorium of Pontius Pilate in Jerusalem on His way to trial.
The frescoes and paintings on the walls had been dirtied through centuries of use, and were in need of restoration.
Beginning early last year, the Sanctuary was closed to allow the restoration to take place.
They are now restored to their formal glory, and the Sanctuary has been open to the public beginning April 11, 2019. They will remain uncovered until June 30, 2019, when they will again be covered.
The steps themselves were covered with wood with slots in them so that pilgrims could view the steps as they climbed to the top (usually on their knees).
They are now un-covered…and for the next month pilgrims can climb up the actual steps without the wood covering.
You can read more at Catholic News Service (CNS)
