There is still a dispute on exactly how many steps there are. This photo is taken from the pier and shows not quite all of them.
The following is an extract about the steps
history of the Whitby Abbey steps
The first record of the Whitby Abbey steps comes from 1340, but they’re believed to be even older. The steps were originally made from wood. It was not until 1774 that the original wooden steps were replaced with stone from Sneaton.
It is thought the 199 steps were used as a test of Christian faith to those who wished to worship in St Mary’s Church. Climbing the steps would prove that you were faithful. Anyone who has climbed them recently knows how testing they can be!
Thank goodness for the “benches”
As you’re climbing, we’re sure you’re grateful for the “benches” placed at intervals as you ascend. While that’s certainly what they’re used for today, these resting points were created with a different purpose in mind.
Before the churchyard was closed to burials in the 19th century, coffins were regularly carried up the steps by grieving family and friends. Wooden planks were put in place to give the pall-bearers a respectful place to rest the coffin while they caught their breath.
While a horse and carriage could carry the body to the graveyard via Green Lane, many people preferred to be carried up the steps to their final resting place. We can easily imagine what an impressive site that would have made.
Better on black
Thank you for all your lovely comments and favs all are appreciated and welcome.
Interesting narrative Margaret, I think I rather look at all those steps from afar ! I never made it up the steps many years ago when I visited Whitby!
Gosh one would need to be fit to live in this place. I'd either be stuck at the top or in one of the houses until I could gain the stamina to climb those stairs.
I think I would be like you, standing at the bottom and taking the photo. Wouldn't even venture up there with my knees these days.
I guess being a Christian is out of the question for me if this is what you have to do to test your faith..
Great shot! The first time I came down them it was misting, now that was a feat! Now I have a touch of vertigo coming down stairs and I’m so old it would take a lot of time and rest stops to go up but I think I could do it.
Beautiful composition and lovely leading line. An amazing story about carrying coffins. In total, they were 199 degrees closer to heaven when they died.
March 17th, 2024
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I guess being a Christian is out of the question for me if this is what you have to do to test your faith..
Ian