Basilica of Superga

Basilica of Superga

The Basilica of Superga is situated on the Superga hill near Turin, which has an elevation of 672 meters and is among the highest hills in the vicinity. It was constructed between 1717 and 1731 by Victor Amadeus II to fulfill a vow made by the Duke (later King of Sardinia) during the Battle of Turin.

The Basilica of Superga is designed in the late Baroque-Classical style. Its dome was completed in 1726 and bears some resemblance to the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica designed by Michelangelo. All initial designs of the church aimed to create a grand and majestic atmosphere. To emphasize its grandeur, builders even shaved 40 meters off the top of the hill where it stands. The crypt houses the tombs of all the kings and princes of Savoy after 1731. The body of Prince Eugene of Savoy is buried in Turin, but his heart is interred in the Basilica of Superga.

Behind the basilica, there is a memorial plaque marking the site of the 1949 Superga air crash, in which 31 passengers lost their lives, including the entire Torino Football Club team. Two rooms inside the basilica facing the courtyard have been converted into the "Museo del Grande Torino," showcasing many legendary artifacts from the iconic Torino team, including photographs and other materials that illustrate the club's history—inevitably including the tragic end of the former Torino team.

Basilica of Superga

Why go: One of the most notable churches near Turin

Continent: Europe【Europe】

Country/Region: Italy[Italy]

Province/State: Piedmont Region [Piemonte Region]

City: Turin [Turin]