Mule ramp

From road and track construction the principles of design found their way into building architecture.

Later, the very similar equestrian staircases were built as showpieces in palaces, for riders to climb to the upper floors on horseback.

The term mule ramp first appears in specialist literature in the 19th century.

The argument that it was specifically designed for pack mules does not bear scrutiny because its dimensions are much too small for such a purpose.

On the other hand, neither the term mule ramp nor similar designations are known for ascents of this kind that have been used with certainty by pack and draught animals.