The Superga basilica, the tramway and the panoramic view

Historians say that the Basilica of Superga was built in honour of the victory of Austrian troops and the Duke of Savoy, Victor Amédée II, over the French armies of Louis XIV. Turin was the scene of a long battle during the War of the Spanish Succession.

The architecture of the basilica is the work of Filippo Juvarra. This leading architect of the House of Savoy was responsible for other monuments in Turin, such as the façade of the Palazzo Madama. A famous exponent of Baroque architecture, with the Superga basilica he developed a more Piedmontese style to suit his clients.

The Superga basilica can be reached by any means of transport. A serpentine road leads to the basilica and, from Turin, it can even be reached on foot in two hours. However, we recommend that you take the cogwheel tramway. It's both a little trip back in time, with its vintage carriages, and an opportunity to enjoy a very pretty view.

The exterior of the basilica and the panoramic view of Turin, the banks of the River Po and the Alps are already a sight to behold. The interior of the basilica is also well worth a visit. Its exuberant decor of stucco and marble and its 75-metre-high dome are striking in their breathtaking beauty.

From here, you can take a spiral staircase to a balcony at the very top of the dome. Needless to say, the view from the top is even more spectacular.

Finally, there is the royal flat and, above all, the crypt with its five rooms. It houses the royal tombs of the House of Savoy. Accessible on the left façade outside the basilica, the crypt was inaugurated in 1778. This royal necropolis, decorated in stucco and marble, is home to impressive sculptures of great refinement.

The Basilica of Superga is also a place of pilgrimage for all football fans in Turin, especially Torino FC supporters. In fact, in 1949, for reasons unknown, the plane carrying a large part of this football team crashed here. The former Torino Football Club was then at the height of its glory. Since then, a stele has been erected and every May, the fans celebrate their memory.

Once you're up there, do you want to sit back and enjoy the view or just relax your legs? There's only one place close to the basilica where you can have breakfast, lunch, dinner or just a coffee: Cheers superga. This restaurant offers a very varied menu. Typical Italian dishes include pizzas and cheese and charcuterie platters. For a menu with pizza or pasta and a drink, expect to pay 11 euros.

The only accommodation close to the Basilica of Superga is the Agriturismo Ai Guiet. Agriturismo means farmhouse accommodation. There's no extravagant décor or contemporary furnishings, and the rooms have only beds and toiletries. However, the setting and view are more than enough to make for a memorable night. The price is €90 per night for two, including breakfast, and you can dine in the traditional restaurant, where the menu features fruit and vegetables grown on the farm.