Susa

Nestled in the Cottian Alps at the confluence of the Dora Riparia river and the Cenischia stream, Susa is a village of ancient charm and strategic importance. Long known as the Gateway to the Susa Valley, it lies between the Mont Cenis and Montgenèvre passes. Originally called Segusio, Susa was already a thriving Celtic settlement in the 5th century BC—long before cities like Turin or Aosta were founded. Thanks to its location, it became a crossroads of cultures, trade, pilgrims and power: from the Romans to the House of Savoy, to the travelers on the Via Francigena.

The town’s historic center is a living open-air museum, with extraordinary Roman remains such as the Arch of Augustus, built in 8 BC to celebrate the alliance between Rome and the local king Cozio; the majestic Porta Savoia, a monumental gateway; the impressive ruins of the Graziano aqueduct; and the Roman amphitheater, now home to concerts and historical reenactments. Along Corso Unione Sovietica, ancient city walls are still visible, while recent excavations in Piazza Savoia uncovered the remains of a Roman temple once located at the heart of the forum.

During the Middle Ages, Susa became a key center of power for the House of Savoy, thanks to the marriage of Countess Adelaide of Turin to Oddone of Maurienne. Their residence, the Castle of Adelaide, sits on a hill overlooking the town and is today home to the Civic Museum, which displays artifacts from the Iron Age to the Napoleonic period.

Susa is also rich in religious architecture. The majestic Cathedral of San Giusto, founded in 1027 and crowned by a 51-meter Romanesque bell tower, stands alongside the Convent of San Francesco, known for its medieval frescoes and cloisters. Not far away, the Church of the Madonna del Ponte hosts the Diocesan Museum of Alpine Sacred Art, which houses religious artworks dating from the 4th to the 20th century.

The heart of Susa is its historic center, vibrant and full of life, with artisan shops, typical restaurants, cafés, and noble residences such as the Palazzo de’ Bartolomei, the Rotari Tower, and Palazzo Benit with its Baroque details.

Susa hosts a rich calendar of cultural events. Highlights include the Historical Tournament of the Boroughs, held every July, with processions and medieval games; the International Folklore Festival “Castagna d’Oro”, a colorful celebration of music and traditions from around the world; and the Christmas Market “La Magia del Natale”, where visitors can enjoy seasonal delights and artisan gifts.

But Susa also shines for its nature and outdoor activities. Surrounded by scenic mountains, the village is a perfect base for hiking along trails like the Rocciamelone ascent, the Sentiero dei Franchi, the Balcony Trail GTA, or the 3V Ring Route. For motorcyclists, it is a popular stop before tackling the thrilling curves of Mont Cenis or Montgenèvre.

Local food is another highlight. Don’t miss the traditional sweet focaccia of Susa, once served during Roman festivities and still baked in the town’s many bakeries, or the Pan della Marchesa, named after Countess Adelaide. Among the wines, the Avanà Valsusa DOC stands out—ideal to pair with hearty mountain cuisine.

With its unique blend of history, spirituality, Alpine beauty and culinary excellence, Susa offers an authentic and unforgettable travel experience in the heart of the Italian Alps.