06/16/2026
During our time in Ibla and Ragusa Ibla, I was drawn to this beautiful old church, Santa Maria delle Scale (St. Mary of the Stairs). To get to the church, you feel like you are on a stair climber. Then, the stairs of the church number 340. But, the climbing and huffing and puffing is worth it since the terrace beside the church is THE best place to photograph panoramic views of Ragusa Ibla. I posted night shots yesterday. Today, I'll include an image taken during the day, on our second visit between classroom time. The great thing about our second visit: the priest was inside. Kyle had worn shorts that day, so out of respect, he stayed outside. I was the only other person in the church for most of the time. The priest studied me for a while, and then quietly pointed out some not-to-be-missed things, like the original frescos above the original baptismal (which was gated off but could be seen). When I told him I should probably go since my husband was outside (because he'd worn shorts), he insisted that Kyle come in; then, he went to the door to beckon him inside. So, we both received a wonderful private tour. Later, when we left, he followed us outside and called us back inside to show us one more thing. Then, once outside again, he showed us beautiful Gothic pieces of the original church, originally built in the 13th-14th century. They are shown in these images. These special moments in this church with this priest are why I love Italy so much and why I cherish experiences like this. Enjoy these images. More from this special place in Sicily tomorrow.
