Equestrian staircase

Here an equestrian staircase was a spiral, curved or repeatedly interrupted ramp within buildings, that had a gently sloped and a non-slip floor, either smooth or frequently divided by transverse ridges.

[1] From the 15th century, imposing equestrian staircases were built in the stately homes of the nobility.

The equestrian staircase leading to Vladislav Hall in Prague Castle, which was built around 1500, is one of the oldest known examples.

Other equestrian staircases are found: Occasionally ramps were built without any actual steps, enabling horses to draw a carriage or wagon up the incline.

There are examples in Venice (St Mark's Campanile), Geneva (city hall) and Copenhagen (Round Tower).