Scenic Ascent to Monte dei Cappuccini
Why is it significant?
Climb steadily along the winding cobblestone path ascending toward the summit of Monte dei Cappuccini, immersed in the cooling shade of century-old linden, horse chestnut, and oak trees.
Key Facts
| Place | Scenic Ascent to Monte dei Cappuccini |
|---|---|
| Address | Via Giardino 2, 10131 Turin, Italy |
| Geo Coordinates | 45.06000, 7.69800 |
| Part of Walk | The Mole Antonelliana, the Murazzi and Gran Madre: Along the River Po to the Alpine Belvedere |
| Generated | Generated |
Climb steadily along the winding cobblestone path ascending toward the summit of Monte dei Cappuccini, immersed in the cooling shade of century-old linden, horse chestnut, and oak trees. Rising nearly three hundred metres above sea level, this hill was originally called Monte Bastia for the early medieval defensive ramparts that guarded the Po River ford below. In 1583, Duke Carlo Emanuele I of Savoy donated the hill to the Capuchin friars so they could build a monastery and church to place the capital under holy protection. As you wind upward, views of the city unfold between the trees: with every turn the panorama broadens, revealing the grid of baroque avenues, the arrow-straight line of Via Po, and the soaring spire of the Mole Antonelliana etched against the alpine horizon. Pilgrims and nature lovers have walked this hillside path for four centuries. The mountain woodland air brings an invigorating sense of wilderness right beside the metropolis. Ivy-draped stone walls border the trail, creating a secluded sanctuary of birdsong and rustling leaves that feels like a mountain path in the middle of a great metropolis.
Look at the sturdy stone and brick retaining walls: during the famous French siege of Turin in 1640, Savoy soldiers and French besiegers fought fierce skirmishes across these very slopes for control of the monastery, which was regarded as a key natural fortress commanding the valley.
According to local religious legend, when French soldiers attacked the church in 1640, a miraculous tongue of flame burst from the tabernacle, driving back the attackers and saving the Capuchin community from destruction.
Notice the deep hush as you near the summit: the noisy hum of city traffic fades away, replaced by the rustle of leaves and the distant ringing of church bells.
Take the final steps up to the panoramic terrace atop Monte dei Cappuccini.