Aree Archeologiche
Susa
The city of Susa, of Celtic origins and known as Segusium after the Roman conquest was established in a strategic position at the convergence of two roads that lead to Montgenèvre (Via ad Galliam) and to Mt. Cenis. Walking in its old town, you’ll find a number of precious historical evidences: the Arch of August located up the Via degli Archi, celebrates the alliance between Cotius and Augustus; the crucible rock probably used in ancient Celtic rituals, the ruins of Gratianus aqueduct from IV AD, the castrum (buildings and plots of land reserved to or constructed for use as a military defensive position), the antique arena dating back to the II century AD, still used for events and shows. And more, the Porta Savoia (III-IV AD) and the adjacent St. Just Cathedral, the remains of the ancient walls along Via dei Fossali. Finally in Piazza Savoia traces of an ancient temple emerged during recent archaeological excavations.
Dinamitificio Nobel
Avigliana
The monumental remains of the most important explosives factory in the ‘40s are east of the Mareschi wetland. The main reason of such a dislocation was certainly the presence of hills which could protect the built-up area against the effects of the explosions that could be caused by this dangerous activity. The complex, which is a very interesting example of industrial architecture from the beginning of the last century, was one of the first factories in Avigliana and produced beside explosives, fertilizers, paints and chemicals. During the last World War the area was bombed; the production stopped in mid ’60. The Museum opened in 2002 explains, through information boards along its tunnels and its chambers, the history of this important factory and the daily life of men and women working there. Tools and machinery are shown as well as a reproduction of the packaging room, where mostly women were employed.
Museo Diocesano di Arte Sacra
Susa
In the beautiful city of Susa, next to the church Madonna del Ponte (Virgin of the Bridge), the Diocesan Museum of Sacred Art is the headquarters of the Diocesan Museum System of Susa. Its collection displays works of art dating between VI and IX century, belonging to the Treasury of the Cathedral of San Giusto, the Church of Madonna del Ponte and other parishes of the Susa Valley. We mention, among all, the Holy Mary’s Triptyc of Rocciamelone. Besides, paintings and statues from contemporary artists such as Tino Aime, Anna Branciari, Lia Laterza, Francesco Tabusso can be seen. Occasionally thematic exhibition are organized.