Sacra di San Michele Day Trip

Join us on an excursion from Turin to the Sacra di San Michele, a site that inspired Umberto Eco’s renowned novel The Name of the Rose. Prepare to enjoy breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding valley and the majestic Alps!

A Monumental Heritage of Piedmont



Located in the Susa Valley, approximately 40 kilometers (25 miles) from Turin, this Benedictine abbey captivates all who set foot in it. The exact timeline of its construction remains enigmatic, yet it stands as one of the oldest sanctuaries dedicated to Saint Michael the Archangel, dating back to between AD 983 and 987.



The abbey was home to Benedictine monks for nearly six centuries, and after a period of two years without inhabitants, responsibility for the site has now been passed to the Rosminian Fathers. They collaborate with various entities to promote cultural and religious activities, aimed at highlighting the significance of this stunning monument.



Due to its historical and artistic significance, the Sacra di San Michele was honored as a Symbolic Monument of Piedmont in 1994, establishing it as an essential destination in the Susa Valley.

Highlights of the Sacra di San Michele

Entrance and Statue of Saint Michael: The main façade greets visitors with its exquisite entrance, showcasing a towering statue of Saint Michael, measuring 5.5 meters (18 feet). Here, the fallen wings of the devil lie at his feet, the result of his mighty blow that cast the fiend into the depths.Scalone dei Morti: This steep staircase, comprising 243 steps and constructed in the 12th century, derives its name from the notable individuals buried in an atrium niche, signifying its historical importance.The Portal of the Zodiac: At the stairway's summit, experience this striking Romanesque feature, depicting zodiac signs and constellations. It is recognized as the most ancient Romanesque cycle illustrating these celestial bodies.The Church: This church exemplifies a Romanesque-Gothic style, built from red bricks and stone, celebrated for its interior works, including the Great Fresco of the Assumption from 1505 and a late 1600s Fresco of the Legend.The Bell'Alda Tower: Linked to a tale of a girl who leapt from great heights to escape soldiers, this 12th-century tower is said to be where angels intervened to save her from falling.

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 (the work of giants who were very familiar with both the earth and the sky)."



Such were the reflections of Adso of Melk upon first encountering the abbey. In a letter, Umberto Eco expressed his desire to film the adaptation featuring Sean Connery and Christian Slater at this sacred site, although logistics and conditions ultimately hindered the plan.



This connection highlights Eco's affinity for the abbey, likely stemming from visits during his university days in Turin, which may have sparked inspiration for his most renowned literary creation.

Details of the Day Trip



At the scheduled time, we will depart from Turin by bus towards the Sacra di San Michele, revered as a pinnacle of Romanesque architecture in Europe. The guided tour is set to last approximately 2 hours.



We will ascend via the Scalone dei Morti, where we can appreciate the 18-meter-tall (59-foot) pillar standing adjacent to the staircase, which serves to support the church’s structure and the Bell'Alda tower, both of which we'll explore.



Upon reaching the top, visitors will be rewarded with the magnificent marble Portal of the Zodiac. Here, our guide will share insights regarding its history and features, allowing an up-close view of its intricate details, including cherubs playfully tugging at one another’s hair. Additionally, from this vantage point, sweeping views of the Alps and the Vía Francigena come into sight.



Finally, after concluding the tour, the bus will be ready to bring us back to our initial meeting point in Turin, for an overall duration of around 5 hours.