In the middle of Lago d’Orta (Lake Orta) lies the tiny, enchanting Island of San Giulio, just 275 metres long. Immersed in a timeless atmosphere, it is a place where nature, spirituality and history coexist in perfect harmony.
According to legend, San Giulio; the Greek missionary of 4th century, reached the island floating on his cloak to banish dragons and serpents, symbols of evil. Here, he built his hundredth church, the origin of today’s Romanesque Basilica, famous for its precious serpentine pulpit carved in the 12th century. Next to the basilica stands the former seminary, now the Mater Ecclesiae Monastery, home to a community of Benedictine nuns devoted to prayer, study and the transcription of ancient texts; silent guardians of the island’s spiritual soul.
Silence is an essential part of the experience. There are no cars or crowded shops; only ancient houses, gardens and lush vegetation. Around the perimeter runs the “Sentiero del Silenzio e della Meditazione” (Path of Silence and Meditation), a circular walkway dotted with brief inspirational texts inviting reflection.
The island is accessible by boat from Orta San Giulio. Upon arrival, the sensation of crossing a threshold is evident; time slows, the words fade and the gaze opens to serenity. Visiting the island of San Giulio means connecting with a secluded, profound place that speaks to the heart through beauty and faith.