Abbazia di Novalesa

#114 among destinations in Italy

Top attraction, Monastery, Sacred and religious sites, Historical place

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Facts and practical information

Tucked away in the Susa Valley of Italy, the Abbazia di Novalesa is a serene testament to the enduring legacy of monastic life. Founded in 726 AD, this ancient monastery is steeped in history and spirituality, having served as a beacon of religious and cultural significance for nearly thirteen centuries.

Set against the backdrop of the majestic Italian Alps, the Abbazia di Novalesa is not only a site of breathtaking natural beauty but also a repository of art and learning. Throughout its long existence, the monastery has been both a center for the Benedictine order and a refuge for pilgrims and travelers. Its walls have witnessed the ebb and flow of history, from the early days of Charlemagne's rule to the turbulence of the Napoleonic Wars, when it suffered significant damage.

Today, the monastery remains active, with a community of monks dedicated to religious life and the upkeep of this historic site. Visitors to the Abbazia di Novalesa are welcomed into an atmosphere of peace and contemplation. The complex includes a church, chapels, and a museum that houses an impressive collection of medieval manuscripts and religious artifacts, offering a glimpse into the monastic traditions of the past.

The monastery's church, adorned with remarkable frescoes and intricate carvings, is a highlight for those interested in religious art and architecture. The frescoes, dating back to the 11th century, depict scenes from the Bible and the lives of saints, showcasing the artistic heritage of the region.

Alternative names: Architectural style: Romanesque architectureCoordinates: 45°10'46"N, 7°0'31"E

Location

Borgo San Pietro 1Novalesa 10050 PiedmontItaly

Contact

+39 0122 653210

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Day trips

Abbazia di Novalesa – popular in the area (distance from the attraction)

Nearby attractions include: Rocciamelone, Forte di Exilles, Arch of Augustus, Susa Cathedral.

3.7 miNE
Nature, Natural attraction, Mountain
Rocciamelone
95 min walk • Rocciamelone, Italy, is an emblematic peak that stands as a sentinel in the Susa Valley of the Alps. Soaring to an elevation of 3,538 meters, it is renowned for being one of the most accessible high mountains in the Italian Alps, attracting both seasoned climbers...
6.5 miSW
Museum, Military museum, Lookout
Forte di Exilles
167 min walk • Perched dramatically in the Susa Valley of Italy, the Forte di Exilles is a historical monument that echoes tales of military strategy and resilience. This imposing fortress, now functioning as a museum, has stood guard since its origins in the 12th century, though...
3.4 miSE
Arch
Arch of Augustus
88 min walk • The Arch of Augustus, located in Rimini, Italy, stands as a majestic testament to the grandeur of Roman engineering and architecture. Erected in 27 BC, this ancient Roman arch was built to honor Emperor Augustus, and it is the oldest surviving Roman triumphal arch.
3.4 miSE
Church, Sacred and religious sites
Susa Cathedral
88 min walk • Susa Cathedral is a Catholic cathedral in Susa, Piedmont, in northern Italy. It is the seat of the Bishop of Susa and is dedicated to Saint Justus of Novalesa. In origin it was the church of the Benedictine Abbey of St.
3.8 miSE
Nature, Natural attraction, Valley
Susa Valley
97 min walk • The Susa Valley is a valley in the Metropolitan City of Turin, Piedmont region of northern Italy, located between the Graian Alps in the north and the Cottian Alps in the south. It is one of the longest valleys of the Italian Alps.
3.5 miSE
45°8'9"N • 7°2'37"E
Castello della Contessa Adelaide
89 min walk • Forts and castles
4.8 miNE
Alpine hut, Hiking
Rifugio Tazzetti
122 min walk • The Ernesto Tazzetti Refuge is a refuge located in the municipality of Usseglio, in the Viù Valley, in the Graian Alps, at 2,642 m above sea level. It constitutes a useful support point for all mountaineers who want to climb Rocciamelone by...
4.8 miW
Alpine hut, Hiking
Rifugio Vaccarone
123 min walk • The Luigi Vaccarone Refuge is a refuge located in the municipality of Giaglione, Susa Valley, in the Cottian Alps, at 2,747 m above sea level.
3.3 miE
Alpine hut, Hiking
Rifugio Ca' d'Asti
85 min walk • The Cà d'Asti refuge is a refuge located in the municipality of Mompantero, Susa Valley, in the Graian Alps, at 2,854 m above sea level.
2.8 miW
Alpine hut, Hiking
Rifugio Avanzà
72 min walk • The Avanzà refuge is an alpine refuge located in the Cottian Alps of the Susa Valley, in the municipality of Venaus not far from the French border.
7.1 miSW
Alpine hut, Hiking
Rifugio Levi Molinari
181 min walk • The Levi Molinari Refuge is a refuge located in the municipality of Exilles, Val di Susa, in the Cottian Alps, at 1,850 m above sea level.