Isola San Giulio
St Giulio's Isle
the only island on Lake Orta, Piedmont, north Italy
landing stages
WHERE
Lake Orta, a glacial lake in the Alpine foothills of north Italy is a thousand feet above sea-level, encircled by mountains and high hills rich in chestnuts, birch and, thanks to its micro-climate, tall palms. Opposite the island is the charming town Orta San Giulio
PRESENT
On the island is the great Benedectine monastery of enclosed nuns founded in 1973, where the ancient castle was until the 19th century, the delightful concert hall Sala Eleonora Tallone, and the seat of Poetry on the Lake.
PAST
In two thousand years the isle has hosted emperors, queens and saints, has experienced tumult, seige and plague. Long before Christianity arrived, pagans worshipped here
LEGEND
This antique island has a strange history. There are legends of dragons, a dragon's cave exists, stories of saints - one above all: St Giulio. It has inspired literary figures and artists, it is loved by poets, mystics and magicians.
News 1
Feast Day of St Giulio
31st January
News 2
Only for this week can you buy the Pani di San Giulio, sweet cakes made by the nuns
News 3
High Mass in the Basilica every Sunday at 11.00 suspended due to Covid 19
Island with dragons
Giacomo Saporito
