AM Club | The Abbey of Novalesa and the Diocesan Museum in Susa

Visit to Novalesa Abbey located in the village of the same name in Val Cenischia, a secondary valley in the Susa Valleya magical place steeped in history. The royal road to France used to depart from here, and it was here that pilgrims would rest once they had passed or before setting off on the crossing of the Moncenisio Pass.

The act of foundation of Novalesa Abbey dates from 30 January 726. The monastery is dedicated to Saints Peter and Andrew at a time when the Church of the East and West were not yet separated.

The history of Novalesa is not only long, but also full of changes and adaptations. Benedictine monks from Cassino and Sublacensis, Cistercians and Trappists have succeeded one another in the monastery of Novalesa. A monastic workshop of continuous adaptation and rethinking in the light of fidelity to the Gospel and history with its constraints and inspirations. The Abbey of Novalesa has no entrance fee, an offering is strongly recommended.

Drive to Susa and free time for lunch.

At 3 p.m. visit to the Susa Diocesan Museum, which offers visitors an itinerary to discover the art and culture of the Susa Valley. In particular, it houses the Treasure of the San Giusto Cathedral, jewellery, wooden and stone statuary, textiles and a large picture gallery with works from all over the territory dating from the 4th to the 20th century.

Opened in 2000, it is housed in the premises annexed to the Baroque Church of Our Lady of Peace. The museum collection consists of the most precious and significant art objects belonging to the San Giusto Cathedral Treasury, gold jewellery, wooden and stone statuary, textiles and paintings from various parts of the Susa Valley.

Walk around Susa. Situated at the confluence of the two roads leading to the Moncenisio and Montgenèvre Alpine passes, Susa has always been a strategic point of access to the valley of the same name.

Evidence remains of the transits of the Romans, the Savoy family and pilgrims travelling along the Via Francigena. The most important monuments in the archaeological park date back to Roman times: the Arch of Augustus, the Savoy Gate, the aqueduct, the amphitheatre.

With the marriage of Countess Adelaide of Susa to Odoardo of Savoy, Susa became the seat of the court and the castle was built, which still dominates the city from the top of the hill.

• Return in Turin at approximately 7 p.m.
• Departure from Turin at 8.30 am (Corso San Martino, corner of Piazza XVIII Dicembre)
• Cost of the trip32 euros
• Info and reservations: online

Route in collaboration with Piemonturismo