Lake Orta what to see
Discovering ancient churches, historical monuments and villages lost in time. Find out what to see at Lake Orta.
1 – San Giulio island
The island of silence and faith
The Island of San Giulio is a jewel of Lake Orta, dominated by the suggestive Basilica of San Giulio. A unique experience is walking the Via del Silenzio, a path that leads you to the Basilica, offering breathtaking views and a magical atmosphere. The origins of this islet with an amazing charm are legendary, visited every year by thousands of tourists. It seems that it was San Giulio, in 390 AD. to found his church here, freeing the island from monsters and snakes. Today you can visit the small Basilica of San Giulio in Romanesque-Baroque style dating back to the 4th century. and the Monastery of the Benedictine nuns. It is also called the island of silence due to the priceless peace that reigns there in the period in which the influx of visitors calms down. It can be reached from Orta by boat, at set times for both the outward and return journey.
2 – Orta San Giulio
The medieval living room of Lake Orta
Orta San Giulio, a hidden jewel on the shores of Lake Orta, enchants visitors with its timeless beauty and picturesque charm. This fascinating medieval village, dominated by the majestic Rocca di San Giulio, offers a unique experience among paved alleys, ancient stone buildings and suggestive views of the crystal clear waters of the lake. A walk through the streets of Orta San Giulio reveals architectural treasures such as the 12th century Basilica of San Giulio, with its richly decorated Romanesque façade, and the evocative Community Palace which houses the frescoed Council Hall. Piazza Motta, the beating heart of the village, welcomes visitors with its elegant porticoes, charming cafes and artisan shops, offering a breathtaking view of the Island of San Giulio and the surrounding hills.
Travelers can go up to the Sacra Via, a pedestrian path that leads to the Sacro Monte di Orta, a UNESCO heritage site.
3 – Il Sacro Monte di Orta
The history and the faith
The Sacro Monte of Orta is a UNESCO site with twenty frescoed chapels, dedicated to the life of Saint Francis of Assisi. A place of profound spirituality and artistic beauty, which offers a thrilling overview from its highest point.
4 – Madonna del Sasso
Up the hill trough the clouds
The Madonna del Sasso is a sanctuary overlooking the lake, reachable via a suggestive staircase. In addition to the extraordinary panoramic view, the sanctuary exudes an atmosphere of peace and serenity, ideal for moments of contemplation.
5 – Torre di Buccione
The tower, anciet point of view
The Buccione tower and the Special Nature Reserve of Lake Orta allows you to explore the rich biodiversity of the area, with its unique flora and fauna. An ideal place to immerse yourself in nature, go hiking in the woods and enjoy the tranquility of the surrounding environment.
6 – San Filiberto di Pella
Old church dedicate of the 1100
This religious monument is located in the municipality of Pella, on the western shore of Lake Orta and is located not far from the historic center of the town. The San Filiberto complex is certainly worth a visit. The Romanesque church faces east towards the landing place on the lake shore, from which boat processions still depart today to the Island of San Giulio. A majestic layout characterizes it, while a series of nineteenth-century chapels, depicting the via crucis, surrounds it.
It is the only church in Italy dedicated to San Filiberto and its bell tower is the oldest on the western coast of Lake Orta, dating back to the years between 1075 and 1110. A visit to this church which is one of the most spectacular on Lake Orta.