Colle Don Bosco
Frazione Morialdo, 30, Castelnuovo Don Bosco, Italy, 14022
The site of an enormous, modern basilica on a hilltop near Asti, the religious complex of Colle Don Bosco is based around the home where a local saint, Don Bosco, was born. The church itself offers services for both regular Mass and festivals, and the complex also includes a museum to learn about the works of Don Bosco, and more general Italian history focused on rural life.
The basics
A tranquil place in the Italian countryside, Colle Don Bosco draws visitors with its hilltop location and views out into scenic Piedmont. While most people come here to spend an hour or two learning about Don Bosco and visiting the church (don’t miss the bronze statue of the saint), some stop by when passing through this region to relax at the pretty picnic area, have lunch at the on-site restaurant, or admire views from this vantage point. Tours are available to learn more about the history of the complex.
Things to know before you go
Colle Don Bosco is a popular landmark for religious travelers.
Entry to Colle Don Bosco is free.
The complex includes a shop for books and souvenirs.
Photos are allowed within the complex.
How to get there
Colle Don Bosco is about 22 miles (35 kilometers) from the city of Turin. Many people rent a car to explore at their own pace; from Turin, take the Statale 10 toward Chieri to reach Colle Don Bosco. Free parking is available on-site. Public transportation by bus is available from Turin; from the Vigo bus terminal, transfer to Castelnuovo Don Bosco.
When to get there
Visitors looking to attend Holy Mass should check the website for an up-to-date schedule, but generally Mass is offered three times daily and five times on Sundays and festival days. The museums keep separate hours—closed on Mondays and open from Tuesday to Sunday in the morning and late afternoon (with a closure at lunch), with slightly shorter hours during the winter months. It’s best to confirm the opening hours before your visit.
Museum of Rural Life
Within the Colle Don Bosco complex, you’ll find the Museum of Rural Life, which features more than 700 objects from the time of Don Bosco, including furniture, cookware, tools, and decor that are typical of the Italian countryside. Entry is free and an audio guide is available.
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