In Levuka, the historical 199 steps of Mission Hill remain a significant landmark in Fiji’s former capital. These steps, made from weathered coral and limestone, carry a rich history that traces back to the mid-19th century when Levuka was bustling with opportunities brought by missionaries, European traders, and settlers.
During this dynamic period, four Roman Catholic Marist Fathers arrived in Levuka with the aim of sharing their faith and educating the local communities on Ovalau Island. Recognizing the need for a dedicated space for worship and education, they selected Mission Hill as the site for their activities. It is believed that the steps were constructed soon after the mission was established in 1858.
Local resident Luke Tikomaisiga, 71, recalls stories about the steps handed down from his ancestors. He notes the determination of the missionaries, who wanted to create a pathway that resonated with their spiritual journey. “They built the staircase of 199 steps,” Tikomaisiga explains. He emphasizes that the steps were crafted using local materials and built by hand, showcasing the artisanship and dedication of both the missionaries and the local community during that era.
His grandfather shared that the steps represented much more than just a passage; they symbolized the arduous trek the missionaries undertook to spread the Gospel. These steps directed access to the Mission Hill site—home to the first Roman Catholic mission in Fiji.
As time passed, the 199 steps evolved into a symbol of Levuka’s unique history. Despite the capital’s relocation to Suva in 1882, the steps have remained a potent reminder of early Christianity in the region. Visitors and locals who climb the steps do so to enjoy breathtaking views of Levuka and connect with its historical significance.
Market vendor Aloesi Raiviti points out that the steps hold considerable cultural importance for the people of Levuka and for Fiji as a whole. “They remind us of the town’s colonial past and its role in spreading the Gospel, not only in Fiji but throughout the Pacific,” she remarks.
Over the years, the steps have borne witness to critical events in Levuka’s history as generations have walked upon them to honor and remember the town’s heritage. Preservation efforts are underway to maintain the steps as part of Levuka’s historical legacy, reflecting its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Adjacent to the steps are remnants of the old Catholic mission and a small historic chapel.
Today, the 199 steps of Mission Hill are cherished by all who visit Levuka, offering not just a physical climb but a profound journey through history, where each step resonates with the legacy of those who have come before.