Sometimes It’s Okay to Stair
Sunday
At 11,674 stairs, the longest staircase in the world is up Niesen Mountain in Spiez, Switzerland, and was built so that maintenance workers could access the Niesenbahn funicular railway.
Monday
A 300 ft. (88 meter) staircase was installed next to a vertical rock wall in China’s Taihang Mountains to more safely replicate the thrill of rock climbing. To ascend it, however, you must be under 60 and affirm that you don’t suffer from heart or lung conditions.
Tuesday
Although “Stairway to Heaven” is one of rock’s most enduring and heavily-played songs, Led Zeppelin singer Robert Plant dislikes performing it, saying he can no longer relate to the abstract lyrics. He even pledged $10,000 to a Portland, Oregon radio station promising not to play the song anymore in exchange for public sponsorships.
Wednesday
The French have a perfect term for that witty comment that occurs to you right after the moment has passed. “L’esprit de l’escalier,” or “staircase wit” indicates that perfect line you which hits you only on the stairway as you later leave the gathering.
Thursday
The Spanish Steps are in Rome, Italy, yet were commissioned by the French. The name comes from the fact that the Spanish embassy was then located at the base of the stairs.
Friday
The sport of racing up stairs, also called tower running or stairing, has exploded in popularity in recent years, become highly organized, and spawns over 160 races per year all around the world.
Saturday
Though ubiquitous and timelessly useful, stairs are also deadly, currently causing over 2,000 fatal falls annually in the United States.