The entrance of “The Holy Stairs” before its’ closure
Beginning in January, 2018 the “Scala Santa”, or “Holy Stairs” as they are more popularly known, was closed for restoration work. One of the most visited places in Rome, the Sanctuary of the Holy Stairs, draws thousands of visitors every year. These are reputed to be the stairs that Jesus climbed these stairs several times the day he was sentenced to death, thus, they are known as the “Scala Pilati” or “Scala Sancta” (the Holy Stairs or Pilate’s Stairs)
According to an ancient Christian tradition, Saint Helena, the mother of Constantine, had the stairs transported from Pontius Pilate’s palace in Jerusalem to Rome. Many make their way up the stairs on their knees as part of their pilgrimage to Rome.
You can also attain an indulgence, or remittance of temporal punishment due to sin, by climbing the stairs. To receive a plenary indulgence, they must ascend the entire staircase. Otherwise, a partial indulgence may be gained for every step on their knees while meditating on the Passion of Christ.
The usual conditions for an indulgence must be met: making a sacramental confession, receiving the Eucharist, praying for the intentions of the Pope and being free of all attachment to sin.
The restoration work is not being done on the stairs themselves (which are protected by a wood covering) but of the frescoes on the walls surrounding the stairs. Over the years they became darkened and could barely be seen. Restoration will restore them to their original beauty, but has necessitated closing of the stairs themselves.
But you can still visit: Although a temporary image of the entrance has been placed over the actual entrance, an additional set of stairs has been installed next to the stairway, and pilgrims can climb those instead.
The stairs will reopen in late 2018, but we do not have a definite date at this point.
Here is a great video about the work being done from Catholic News Service.
