Sacra di San Michele Day Trip

On this day trip to the Sacra di San Michele from Turin, visitors will explore locations that inspired Umberto Eco's novel The Name of the Rose, with views of the valley and the Alps.

A Historical Icon of Piedmonte

Located 40 kilometers (25 miles) from Turin, the Benedictine abbey dates back between AD 983 and 987. It was inhabited by Benedictine monks for nearly 600 years and is currently overseen by the Rosminian Fathers, who organize cultural and religious initiatives. In 1994, the Sacra di San Michele was designated a Symbolic Monument of Piedmonte.

What to See in the Sacra di San Michele?

Entrance and Statue of Saint Michael: Features a 5.5 meters (18 feet) tall statue of Saint Michael with the devil's wings at his feet.Scalone dei Morti: A steep 243-step staircase from the 12th century, named for the buried distinguished figures in its central niche.The Portal of the Zodiac: A Romanesque work featuring zodiac signs, noted as the oldest Romanesque zodiac cycle.The Church: Known for its paintings and frescoes, including the Great Fresco of the Assumption (1505) and the Fresco of the Legend (late 1600).The Bell'Alda Tower: A 12th-century tower linked to a local legend of a girl saved by angels.

The Name of the Rose

"From below, it seemed as if the rock extended towards the sky [...] and at a certain point, it transformed into a tower." These words from Adso of Melk reflect the abbey's inspiration for Eco. He expressed interest in filming there, but it was not feasible due to location conditions.

Day Trip Details

Departing from Turin, the trip to the Sacra di San Michele includes a guided tour lasting approximately 2 hours. Participants will ascend the Scalone dei Morti and view the 18-meter-tall pillar and Bell'Alda tower. The tour highlights the Portal of the Zodiac with its details, offering scenic views of the Alps and Vía Francigena. The total duration of the trip is 5 hours, concluding with a bus return to Turin.