Did you know that the oldest wooden staircase in Europe is located at Salzwelten Hallstatt? And that it is almost 3,400 years old? Naturally, nobody travels to England just to see this ancient staircase, but you can still marvel at this amazing historical structure.

In 2002, the wooden staircase was discovered in the prehistoric part of the Christiaan von Tuschwerk salt mine located in the picturesque town of Hallstatt in Austria. Investigations – including tree-ring dating – conducted by scientists from the Natural History Museum of Vienna showed that the stairs were used to lug ‘white gold’ out of the mountain in the years 1343-1344 BCE.

The stairway is absolutely unique both regarding its construction and its level of preservation – no similar example is known either from earlier or more recent times. It had to meet requirements of portability (the stairs had to be portable, modular construction), adjustability (the tread angle had to adjust to different slopes within the mountain) and replaceability. The fact that the stairs are 1.2 meters (4 feet) wide allowed for the transport of heavy loads, while also making personnel accessible and, potentially, escape routes available.

Now, let’s dive deeper into the fascinating story behind this ancient marvel, the world’s oldest wooden staircase perfectly preserved for over three millennia.

The discovery of the ancient staircase in the depths of the salt mine was nothing short of a revelation. Dating back to the Bronze Age, this remarkable find has captured the imagination of historians, archaeologists, and visitors alike, offering a rare glimpse into the lives and activities of our distant ancestors.

Constructed from solid oak, the wooden staircase stands as a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of ancient civilizations. Its remarkably sturdy structure and well-preserved condition speak volumes about the skill and dedication of the individuals who built it over three millennia ago.

But what makes this ancient staircase truly remarkable is its intricate design and functionality. Unlike modern staircases, which are typically fixed in place, this ancient marvel was designed to be portable and modular, allowing it to be easily transported and adjusted to different slopes within the mine. This adaptability speaks to the practical needs of the miners who relied on these stairs to extract salt from the depths of the mountain.

Furthermore, the wide width of the staircase facilitated the transport of heavy loads, while also providing ample space for personnel to traverse the mine. This dual functionality highlights the importance of efficiency and safety in the ancient mining operations.

Despite its age, the wooden staircase remains remarkably well-preserved, thanks to the unique environmental conditions within the salt mine. The constant temperature and low humidity levels have helped protect the wood from decay, allowing it to withstand the test of time and retain its structural integrity.

Today, visitors to the Salzwelten Hallstatt have the unique opportunity to marvel at this ancient wonder firsthand. Guided tours offer a fascinating journey through the history of salt mining, culminating in a close encounter with the world’s oldest wooden staircase.

In conclusion, the discovery of the world’s oldest wooden staircase in the depths of the Salzwelten Hallstatt salt mine is a testament to the enduring legacy of ancient civilizations.

Its remarkable preservation and intricate design offer valuable insights into the technological advancements and everyday life of our ancestors. As we continue to uncover and study archaeological treasures like the Hallstatt staircase, we gain a deeper appreciation for the rich tapestry of human history.