La Sacra di San Michele

The large, fortified monastic complex of La Sacra di San Michele (La Sagra 'd San Michel) sits perched, Machu Picchu-like, on top of Mt. Pirchiriano located west of Turin just off the Turin-Bardonecchia autostrada near the town of Avigliana.

The date of the earliest structures is uncertain but may stretch back to late Roman times in the 5th century. According to legend, the original chapel, La Chiesetta Tricora, was constructed in veneration of Saint Michael, which upon completion was dedicated by angels, hence the title "sacra," or "consecrated." In 983, Count Hugo de Montboissier initiated construction of an adjoining Benedictine monastery. La Sacra was damaged during fighting during the 14th century but remained under the Benedictines until 1622. Most of the remaining complex dates from the early 17th century. It was subsequently abandoned when it was partially destroyed by attacking French troops in 1629, 1693, and again in 1706.

In 1836, King Carlo Alberto of Savoja convinced Pope Gregory XVI to give La Sacra to the Rosminians, a monastic order founded by Antonio Rosmini. As a consequence the Savoja exhumed the remains of 24 of their ancestors from Turin Cathedral and transferred them to La Sacra.

The partially-ruined complex, which is still occupied by Rosminian Fathers, received a great boost in public & private funding spurred by a papal visit in 1991 and a 1994 statute enacted by the Region of Piemonte officially designating La Sacra a symbolic monument of Piemonte. In addition, an agreement between the Rosminian Fathers and the Region of Piemonte ensured their continued presence and daily administration. At the end of the 90's the Region obtained Ownership of the property and the structures. Exterior night illumination was installed, and funds have been targeted for further restoration, upkeep, better public access (including handicapped), and various programs & public events, including current tours and concerts.

Article Submitted by Kevin McCabe
http://www.sacradisanmichele.com/