The Basilica Superga stands high on a hill above Turin with stunning views over the entire Po Valley. To reach the church, take the No. 15 tram to Stazione Sassi and board the charming 1930s funicular, Tranvia Sassi-Superga, for a ride through the forest to the top of the hill. From the funicular station, it's a short walk up to the Basilica. The church can also be reached by tourist coach and by car. Savoy king Vittorio Amedeo II commissioned court architect Filippo Juvarra to build the Superga in gratitude to the Madonna for victory against the French in 1706. The Superga is Turin's pantheon, with many Savoy kings and dukes buried underneath the church. This mountaintop was also the scene of a tragic plane crash in 1949 that wiped out the entire Turin football team. Sassi-Superga funicular open Wednesday-Monday 9 am-noon and 2-8 pm; Basilica 8 am-7 pm in summer, 8 am-6 pm in winter. Fees: Funicular 3.10 euros, basilica dome 3 euros, tombs 3 euros. Stazione Sassi, Piazza Modena, Turin. Phone 011-576-4733.
