Known as "the Rome of the Alps," Aosta retains much of the original walls and a prestigious archaeological area between the Porta Pretoria, a majestic entrance to the city, perfectly preserved, and the Roman Theater, which, with its monumental façade, represents one of the most significant testimonies of the time... #tuttitaly
Surrounded by high mountains - the Grand Combin, Mont Vélan, Mont Emilius, Becca di Nona, and Testa del Rutor - Aosta is the only city in the Aosta Valley. It is the transit point of the Via Francigena (the ancient pilgrimage route from Canterbury to Rome).
History
The city was founded by the Romans in 25 BC. with the name Augusta Praetoria in honor of the Emperor Octavian Augustus.
Known as the Rome of the Alps, Aosta retains most of the original walls.
Porta Praetoria, the majestic entrance to the city, is perfectly preserved. The Roman Theater, with its monumental facade, represents one of the most significant testimonies of the time.
Aosta, both in summer and in winter, offers various sports and entertainment opportunities: the cable car a stone's throw from the train station connects the valley floor to the panoramic Pila (1800m), one of the ski areas - a summer destination for pleasant walks or daring descents with downhill and freeride bikes.
Not to be missed:
- The iconic Arch of Augustus and the Porta Praetoria are among the world's best-preserved gates.
- The Roman Theater. Venue for outdoor events and shows.
- The Forensic Cryptoporticus. A unique Roman underground building.
- The Cathedral and Collegiata of Sant'Orso. They contain art from the Middle Ages: frescoes from the 11th century in the attic, floor mosaics, and the wooden choir. Inside the Cathedral, you can visit the treasure museum; in Sant'Orso, the magnificent cloister with its sculpted capitals.
- The early Christian Basilica of San Lorenzo, built to house the burials of the first bishops of Aosta, stands under the deconsecrated church of San Lorenzo, home to art exhibitions.
- The Regional Archaeological Museum. The neoclassical building houses archaeological collections and crucial temporary art exhibitions.
- The megalithic area of Saint-Martin de Corléans. One of the most interesting archaeological sites in Europe.
Gastronomy:
Among the typical dishes: are fondue, polenta concia, seupa à la Vapelenentse, Aosta Valley ribs, chamois civet, Aosta Valley sweet tiles, and Aosta Valley coffee. These delicious dishes will give your visit to Valle D'Aosta a flavor to remember.
