The abbey was the primary inspiration for the setting of Umberto Eco's novel, The Name of the Rose.
The Porta dello Zodiaco, created by the sculptor Nicolao in the 12th century, features intricate relief carvings of constellations and zodiac signs.
The 'Stairway of the Dead' earns its name from the burial niches that once lined the walls for deceased monks and high-ranking officials.
A massive 15th-century statue of Archangel Michael, crafted by the sculptor Paul d'Ogna, stands on the rooftop terrace.
The building's foundations are anchored directly into the granite peak of Mount Pirchiriano, creating a seamless transition between geology and architecture.
Sacra di San Michele is an 10th-century religious complex perched atop Mount Pirchiriano in the Susa Valley. The abbey is renowned for its vertical architecture, which integrates natural rock formations directly into the building's structural foundations. Its most prominent feature, the 'Stairway of the Dead,' consists of 18 steps carved into stone leading to the Porta dello Zodiaco. The site served as a vital stop for pilgrims traveling the Via Francigena between France and Rome. The current structure exhibits a mix of Romanesque and Gothic architectural elements resulting from centuries of expansion. It stands at an elevation of 962 meters, providing views of the surrounding Piedmontese landscape and the city of Turin. The site functions as a monument of the Piedmont Region and is maintained by the Rosminian Order.
The terrace near the main entrance offers an unobstructed view of the Susa Valley and the surrounding peaks.
Wear sturdy hiking footwear, as the stone paths within the abbey are uneven and can be slippery.
Bring a light jacket even in summer, as the mountain altitude results in cooler temperatures and higher wind exposure than the valley floor.
Start your visit at the top terrace to prioritize the most expansive views before exploring the interior chambers.
Attempting to reach the abbey solely by foot from the valley floor without adequate physical preparation, as the 'Antica Cava' trail is a steep, strenuous mountain climb.
Closed on Mondays except during public holidays or specific summer periods.
Visitors are expected to dress modestly, keeping shoulders and knees covered, and maintain a quiet demeanor throughout the interior.
