9 out of 10 times we will take the stairs we go up and down every day for granted. Their engineering and innovation is never something we dwell on for too long, we’re normally too busy.

It is not a necessity that the subject of stairs be boring. Here we will look at some interesting facts about stairs. It’s time to demonstrate that stairs can actually be quite fun. You need not dismiss the subject next time it comes up in conversation.

You never know, this trivia may come in useful in a pub quiz.

The longest in the world

The Neisenbahn in Switzerland can take credit for having the longest set of steps in the world. They measure a whopping 1669 meters. To get to the top, you will have to climb 11,674 steps.

Optical illusion stairs

The Penrose stairs are an optical illusion featuring stairs. Looking at these stairs too long can give you a headache. The stairs form a continuous loop, so that the person can ascend or descend without getting any higher or lower. In three dimensions, this staircase would be impossible.

Spiral stairs

If you are looking at stairs that wind around a central pole, then you are probably looking at a spiral staircase. These staircases are aesthetically pleasing and a perceived to be among the classiest in the world. A notable spiral staircase is the external spiral staircase of the Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo in Venice.

There are also helical stairs, which are similar to spiral stairs. They have a handrail on both sides and have the advantage of having a more uniformed tread width.

Regulations

Depending on what country you are in, you will face different regulations with regards to stairs. This is usually to do with construction of the stairs to ensure they are completely safe.