Italy off the beaten path: the village of Susa, ancient gateway to Italy.

LenaPon Temmuz 10, 2022

Susa is a small town with a very old story to tell. Located in the homonymous valley, along the banks of the Dora Riparia, at the foot of Rocciamelone, it's also called "key of Italy" due to its location close to the French border. But what really makes this little town extremely interesting, other than its proximity to many hiking trails and the ski slopes of Sestriere, it's the historic centre particularly rich in history, from the memories of the ancient Roman dominion to the most recent medieval buildings.

Susa, Italy

In the 1st century B., and until 63 AD, Susa was the capital of the kingdom of Susa. Then, after annexation by the Roman Empire, it became the capital of the province of the Cottian Alps.

Traces of ancient Roman art are still visible in the Arch of Augustus and in the Amphitheater, freely open to the public. Here is where the fights between gladiators and animals took place.

Susa, Italy

In the medieval city centre, the Cathedral of San Giusto was consecrated in 1027, although, since then, it has been altered several times. One of its facades leans against a large tower of Roman origin which closes the Savoia gate. The bell tower, 51 meters high, in Romanesque style, is topped by a central cusp and angular pinnacles that are signs of the Gothic style of the 15th century.

Susa, Italy

There are two more churches that are worth a visit. The Church of Santa Maria Maggiore, also dating from the beginning of the 11th century. This is the oldest in the city and has a magnificent Romanesque bell tower, but it can be visited only from outside because since 1749 has become private property. And, the church of Santa Maria del Ponte (13th century) dedicated to the Virgin of Peace, that houses a diocesan museum of sacred art.

Susa Castle

On top of the village, the castle of the Countess Adelaide, witness of a thousand-year-old history, overlooks the whole town.

The construction date of the Susa Castle is uncertain, but it may have been built by the first rulers of this area and inhabited by the Cozi. The building underwent many transformations, before becoming the home of the Marquis of Susa.

It now hosts a museum recently opened to the public, which, with its original layout, evokes the determining role of the Alpine valleys and the territory of the Susa Valley in the historical route of the Savoy family.

Before leaving, don't miss a stop at the Favro bakery, to taste the sweet Focaccia di Susa. It's delicious and it's… sweet! Soft and sugar coated, a feast for your taste buds.