In stock · No. BIGGIE RUN 44
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VINTAGE RELIGIOUS LANDMARK POSTCARD - ROME ITALY
You're viewing a stunning vintage chrome postcard featuring La Scala Santa (The Holy Stairs) in Rome Italy from the 1970s-early 1980s era. This beautiful unused postcard captures one of Christianity's most sacred pilgrimage sites with remarkable clarity and detail.
Description This exceptional topographical postcard showcases the famous Holy Stairs housed in the Pontifical Sanctuary near the Lateran Palace. The photograph presents a complete interior view of the wooden-encased marble staircase leading up to the Sancta Sanctorum (Holy of Holies) chapel.
The image captures the ornate barrel-vaulted ceiling adorned with intricate religious frescoes and decorative artwork lining the walls. Warm lighting accentuates the rich architectural details and spiritual atmosphere of this revered pilgrimage destination.
The card is numbered ROM 177/369 indicating it was part of an extensive series documenting Rome's landmarks. Multilingual captions appear on the reverse in Italian French English and German reflecting its appeal to international tourists.
Historical Significance According to Catholic tradition these 28 marble steps are the very stairs Jesus Christ climbed during his Passion on the way to trial before Pontius Pilate in Jerusalem. The stairs were allegedly brought to Rome by St. Helena (mother of Emperor Constantine) in the 4th century AD.
For centuries devout pilgrims have ascended these sacred steps on their knees as an act of devotion. The wooden casing visible in the image was installed to protect the original marble which is only revealed on special occasions.
The Sancta Sanctorum chapel at the top contains numerous sacred relics and the ancient icon known as the 'Acheiropoieta' (not made by human hands). This site represents one of Rome's most important religious destinations outside the Vatican.
Condition This postcard is in
excellent condition - almost pristine despite being nearly half a century old! There is minimal age-related yellowing no writing stamps or postmarks (completely unused).
The colors remain remarkably vibrant with excellent image clarity. No creases tears or noticeable damage are present. The corners are sharp with minimal wear making this an exceptional collector's specimen.
Age/Era This chrome postcard dates from the 1970s-early 1980s as evidenced by the printing style paper quality and inclusion of the 00100 ROMA postal code on the reverse. The photographic style and color profile are characteristic of tourist postcards from this period.
The card captures the Holy Stairs as they appeared during this era providing a fascinating historical record of this important religious site before more recent restorations. It represents an authentic piece of late 20th century religious tourism memorabilia.
Rarity While postcards of major Rome landmarks are relatively common this specific interior view of the Scala Santa with such excellent composition and preservation quality is increasingly difficult to find in unused condition. The card's excellent state of preservation makes it particularly desirable.
Vintage postcards like this are rapidly disappearing from the market as they're absorbed into permanent collections.
Once they're gone they're gone forever - these are not items that can be manufactured again with the same historical significance.
Collector's Note There is something profoundly moving about holding an authentic piece of history in your hands. This postcard connects you directly to one of Christianity's most sacred sites and to a moment in time when a previous generation marveled at the same sight.
Whether you collect religious memorabilia Italian landmarks or architectural postcards this exceptional example will enhance your collection. Its pristine condition makes it suitable for display research or preservation in an archival album.
Imagine the stories this card could tell - perhaps purchased by a pilgrim visiting this sacred site but never sent it has remained pristine for decades until finding its way to your collection. Each vintage postcard carries with it a mysterious journey and connection to the past.
SHIPPING INFORMATION Buy multiple postcards and pay only ONE low shipping cost! I combine shipping on all postcard purchases so you can add as many to your collection as you wish without paying additional postage fees.
All postcards are carefully packaged in archival-safe sleeves and shipped in rigid mailers to ensure they reach you in the same condition shown.
Don't Miss This Opportunity! Vintage postcards of this quality are becoming increasingly scarce as collectors recognize their historical and artistic value. Once this card is sold I may never find another example in such pristine condition.
Secure this beautiful piece of religious history for your collection today before it disappears into another archive for decades to come!"
_gsrx_vers_1715 (GS 9.9.2 (1715))
Offered by Gosla Antiques & Collectibles, purveyors of antiquities, curiosities and collectible wares. Dispatched from Pennsylvania, United States, with tracking.
Gosla Antiques & Collectibles