Sacra di San Michele Day Trip

On this day trip to the Sacra di San Michele from Turin, you'll visit 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, about 40 kilometers (25 miles) from Turin, the Benedictine abbey is one of the oldest temples dedicated to Saint Michael, constructed between AD 983 and 987. Inhabited by Benedictine monks for nearly 600 years, it is now managed by the Rosminian Fathers, who organize cultural and religious initiatives. In 1994, Sacra di San Michele was declared a Symbolic Monument of Piedmonte.

What to See in the Sacra di San Michele?

Entrance and Statue of Saint Michael: the impressive 5.5-meter (18-foot) statue of Saint Michael is located at the entrance, defeating the devil.Scalone dei Morti: a steep staircase with 243 steps, built in the 12th century, named for the distinguished figures buried in its atrium.The Portal of the Zodiac: located at the top of the staircase, this Romanesque work features the zodiac signs and is the oldest Romanesque cycle of its kind.The Church: this Romanesque-Gothic church is known for its interior paintings, including the Great Fresco of the Assumption from 1505.The Bell'Alda Tower: a 12th-century tower associated with a legend of a girl saved by angels after jumping from it.

The Name of the Rose

These words of Adso of Melk reflect Eco's connection to the abbey, which he intended to feature in his movie adaptation starring Sean Connery and Christian Slater.

Day Trip Details

The trip departs from Turin by bus to the Sacra di San Michele, featuring a guided tour lasting approximately 2 hours. Visitors will ascend the Scalone dei Morti and view the 18-meter-tall pillar and the Bell'Alda tower. The tour concludes with views of the Portal of the Zodiac and scenic vistas of the Alps and Vía Francigena, before returning to Turin after a total of 5 hours.