A Paternoster is a type of elevator that consists of a chain of open compartments, continuously moving in a loop. Unlike traditional elevators, it does not have buttons or doors; instead, passengers step in and out at different floors as the elevator moves slowly up and down. This design allows for quick access to multiple floors without waiting for the elevator to arrive. The name "Paternoster" comes from the Latin phrase for the Lord's Prayer, reflecting the repetitive nature of the elevator's movement. While they were popular in the mid-20th century, many have been phased out due to safety concerns and modern building codes.