Val di Susa

Val di Susa
Name	Val di Susa
Other name	Valle di Susa
Photo caption	A panoramic view of the valley.
Location	Piedmont, Italy
Coordinates	45, 08, N, 7...
Length	50 km
Borders	Graian Alps (north), Cottian Alps (south)
River	Dora Riparia

Val di Susa. A major alpine valley in the Piedmont region of northwestern Italy, it stretches for approximately 50 kilometers from the confluence of the Dora Riparia with the Po River near Turin westward to the Colle del Moncenisio and the Fréjus passes on the border with France. Historically a crucial transalpine corridor, the valley is flanked by the Graian Alps to the north and the Cottian Alps to the south, and is renowned for its rich historical heritage, vibrant Waldensian communities, and significant modern transport infrastructure. Its strategic importance has shaped its history from Roman times through the Savoyard period to contemporary debates over major engineering projects.

Geography

The valley is primarily drained by the Dora Riparia, a tributary of the Po, which originates near the Colle del Moncenisio. It is bounded to the north by peaks such as Rocciamelone and the Via Lattea ski area, and to the south by mountains including Monte Orsiera and the Orsiera-Rocciavrè Natural Park. Key tributary valleys include the Val Cenischia leading to Susa and the Val di Viù. The climate varies from temperate at its eastern entrance near Avigliana and its lakes to a pronounced alpine climate in its upper reaches near Bardonecchia and Oulx.

History

In antiquity, the valley was inhabited by the Celtic Taurini and later became a vital route for the Roman Empire, evidenced by the Arch of Augustus in Susa and the ancient town of Segusio. During the early Middle Ages, it was part of the March of Turin and later came under the firm control of the House of Savoy. The valley was a center of Waldensian religious dissent, facing persecution, notably during the 1655 massacres. In the 19th century, it was a theater of conflict during the Napoleonic Wars and the Risorgimento, with fortifications like those at Exilles and Fenestrelle playing key roles. The Fréjus Rail Tunnel completion in 1871 cemented its status as a critical international link.

Economy

The economy has traditionally been based on agriculture, forestry, and stone quarrying, particularly from the famous Bardiglio marble. Since the mid-20th century, winter tourism centered around major ski resorts like Via Lattea (Milky Way), Sestriere, and Sauze d'Oulx has become predominant, especially after hosting events for the 2006 Winter Olympics. The valley also hosts significant industrial and service activities related to the maintenance of international transport corridors, including operations for the TELT consortium managing the Fréjus base tunnel project.

Culture and Traditions

The valley exhibits a unique cultural blend of Italian and Occitan influences, with the Occitan language still preserved in several communities. Traditional events include the Historiale festival in Susa and the Battle of the Oranges in Meana di Susa. Religious heritage is profound, encompassing Waldensian temples in Torre Pellice and Pomaretto, as well as notable Romanesque and Gothic structures like the Sacro Monte di Belmonte and the Novalesa Abbey. Local cuisine features dishes like polenta, tomini cheeses, and genepì liqueur.

Transport and Infrastructure

A vital transit corridor between Italy and France, the valley is traversed by the Autostrada A32, the Turin–Modane railway, and the historic Colle del Moncenisio road. The Fréjus Rail Tunnel and the parallel Fréjus Road Tunnel are critical international links. The controversial Turin–Lyon high-speed railway project, involving the new Fréjus Base Tunnel, has been a major point of local and political debate for decades. Major rail junctions are located at Bussoleno and Oulx.

Tourism

Tourism is a cornerstone of the local economy, driven primarily by winter sports in the extensive Via Lattea ski area, which includes Sestriere, Sauze d'Oulx, and Cesana Torinese. Summer activities include hiking in the Orsiera-Rocciavrè Natural Park and Gran Paradiso National Park, and visiting historical sites such as the Fenestrelle Fort, the Exilles fort, and the archaeological area of Industria. Cultural tourism focuses on Susa with its Roman arch and cathedral, as well as the sacred mountain of Sacro Monte di Belmonte.

Category:Valleys of Piedmont Category:Alpine valleys Category:Province of Turin