The Isola di San Giulio is an enchanting and spiritual place in the Lago d'Orta in the Piedmont region north of Italy. Located in the town of Orta San Giulio at the feet of Monte Tre Croci, the island is considered to be a sacred site, with a monastery and three churches all located within a small area.
The monastery is the most prominent feature of the island, with its striking white façade and Moorish architectural style standing out against the lush green landscape of the island. Sections of the monastery date back to the 11th century and inside visitors will find the beautiful Baroque chapel decorated with frescoes and the remains of a crypt filled with statues. The 11th century church of St. Julius is also worth a visit. This pre-romanesque building has a striking façade surrounded by cypress trees and is dedicated to the patron saint of the island, San Giulio. Inside, visitors will find frescoes from the 12th and 14th centuries, an altar piece by the 17th century artist Francisco Rotta, and a plenary indulgence statue. The island is also home to the Basilica of Madonna della Pietà, a former cathedral dating back to the early 14th century. Inside, visitors will find several important works by Baroque artist Antonio Bartolena and a crypt dedicated to St. Frassino. Although the island is small enough that visitors can explore it with ease, it's worth taking the time to stop and appreciate the spectacular views across the lake. On the southern tip of the island, a path zig zags through the trees leading to a pier and a picturesque stone bridge so visitors can admire the tranquil beauty of the lake and its lush islets.
The monastery is the most prominent feature of the island, with its striking white façade and Moorish architectural style standing out against the lush green landscape of the island. Sections of the monastery date back to the 11th century and inside visitors will find the beautiful Baroque chapel decorated with frescoes and the remains of a crypt filled with statues. The 11th century church of St. Julius is also worth a visit. This pre-romanesque building has a striking façade surrounded by cypress trees and is dedicated to the patron saint of the island, San Giulio. Inside, visitors will find frescoes from the 12th and 14th centuries, an altar piece by the 17th century artist Francisco Rotta, and a plenary indulgence statue. The island is also home to the Basilica of Madonna della Pietà, a former cathedral dating back to the early 14th century. Inside, visitors will find several important works by Baroque artist Antonio Bartolena and a crypt dedicated to St. Frassino. Although the island is small enough that visitors can explore it with ease, it's worth taking the time to stop and appreciate the spectacular views across the lake. On the southern tip of the island, a path zig zags through the trees leading to a pier and a picturesque stone bridge so visitors can admire the tranquil beauty of the lake and its lush islets.
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