Sacra di San Michele Day Trip

On this day trip to the Sacra di San Michele from Turin, you will visit significant locations that inspired Umberto Eco's novel The Name of the Rose, while enjoying views of the valley and the Alps.

A Historical Icon of Piedmonte

Located in the Susa Valley, approximately 40 kilometres (25 miles) from Turin, the Benedictine abbey is one of the oldest temples dedicated to Saint Michael the Archangel, dating back to AD 983 to 987. After being inhabited by Benedictine monks for almost 600 years and a period of abandonment, it is presently managed by the Rosminian Fathers, who conduct cultural and religious initiatives. The site was recognized as a Symbolic Monument of Piedmonte in 1994.

What to See in the Sacra di San Michele?

Entrance and Statue of Saint Michael: the grand entrance features a 5.5-metre (18 feet) tall statue of Saint Michael, with the devil's wings at his feet.Scalone dei Morti: a steep staircase with 243 steps, built around the 12th century, named for the distinguished figures buried in the atrium.The Portal of the Zodiac: a Romanesque work at the top of the staircase depicting zodiac signs and constellations.The Church: a Romanesque-Gothic church known for its interior paintings, including the Great Fresco of the Assumption from 1505.The Bell'Alda Tower: a 12th-century tower linked to a 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."

Character Adso of Melk describes the abbey, which inspired Umberto Eco for his novel. Eco had intentions to film its adaptation at the site, which did not happen due to location constraints.

Day Trip Details

The trip begins with a bus departure from Turin to the Sacra di San Michele, featuring a guided tour lasting approximately 2 hours. The itinerary includes the Scalone dei Morti and visits to the Bell'Alda tower and Portal of the Zodiac, highlighting historic details along the way. The tour concludes with a return bus to Turin, completing a total duration of 5 hours.