Leper's Tower Tour du Lépreux
An austere medieval tower with Roman foundations, once a refuge for lepers, offering a glimpse into Aosta's layered history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for exterior photos
Leper's Tower Tour du Lépreux
Best Time
Best light for exterior photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An austere medieval tower with Roman foundations, once a refuge for lepers, offering a glimpse into Aosta's layered history.
"A little understated, a little overlooked, but very interesting."
Appreciate the Mystery
Since you can't go inside, focus on the tower's imposing exterior and its evocative history. :camerawithflash:
Research the History
Understanding its past as a leper's refuge and Roman foundation enhances the visit. :books:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Leper's Tower
Aosta, Valle d'Aosta
An austere, dark tower with Roman foundations, once a place of isolation for lepers. Its mysterious exterior sparks imagination.
Roman Foundations
Base of the tower
Discover the ancient Roman tower ruins upon which the Leper's Tower was built, hinting at centuries of history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Understand the History
Exterior Views Only
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Appreciate the Mystery
Since you can't go inside, focus on the tower's imposing exterior and its evocative history. :camerawithflash:
Research the History
Understanding its past as a leper's refuge and Roman foundation enhances the visit. :books:
Combine with Aosta Exploration
Visit alongside Aosta's Roman ruins and charming streets for a fuller experience. :world_map:
Tips
from all over the internet
Appreciate the Mystery
Since you can't go inside, focus on the tower's imposing exterior and its evocative history. :camerawithflash:
Research the History
Understanding its past as a leper's refuge and Roman foundation enhances the visit. :books:
Combine with Aosta Exploration
Visit alongside Aosta's Roman ruins and charming streets for a fuller experience. :world_map:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Leper's Tower to be an interesting historical site, particularly for its unique past as a leper refuge and its Roman foundations. While the inability to visit inside is a common point of note, many appreciate its austere exterior and the mystery it holds. It's best suited for those with a keen interest in archaeology and local history.
"Locked up building on a non-descript corner next to a field with some garbage piles. Nothing to read, no context, nothing. I suppose if you know the history and want to touch the building it MIGHT be worth it."
Bryant Eastham
"Good for people who love archaeology"
jurry zaidi
"Cool"
AIG
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Leper's Tower is located in Aosta, Valle d'Aosta. It's situated on a non-descript corner, often accessible by foot within the city. If arriving in Aosta, you can explore the city center on foot to find it. :walking:
Parking in Aosta can be found in designated public lots or garages. It's best to park in the city center and walk to the tower, as it's a relatively compact area. :car:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Leper's Tower cannot be visited inside. Access is restricted to viewing the exterior only. This adds to its mysterious allure. :noentrysign:
As the tower is only viewable from the outside, there is no entrance fee. It's a free historical site to observe. :moneywithwings:
Since it's an exterior viewing only, there are no set visiting hours. You can observe the tower at any time of day. :clock1:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can admire the austere architecture of the tower, its Roman foundations, and contemplate its historical significance as a former leper refuge. :statueofliberty:
The tower's imposing and somewhat sinister appearance can make for dramatic photographs, especially with interesting lighting. :camerawithflash:
Built on Roman ruins, it was later used to house lepers to prevent disease spread. It has a rich, albeit somber, history dating back centuries. :scroll:
There may be a plaque providing some historical context, as mentioned by visitors. It's recommended to research its history beforehand for a deeper understanding. :information_desk:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, being in Aosta, you'll find numerous restaurants, cafes, and trattorias nearby offering local Valle d'Aosta cuisine. :forkandknife:
📸 📸 Photography
Experiment with different angles to capture its imposing structure. Consider the surrounding environment for context. Early morning or late afternoon light can add dramatic effect. :sunriseovermountains:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
History Buffs & Archaeology Enthusiasts
While you can't go inside, the exterior itself is a testament to enduring architecture. Consider visiting other Roman sites in Aosta, such as the Arch of Augustus and the Roman Theatre, to create a comprehensive historical exploration of the city.
Curious Travelers Seeking Unique Sites
Combine your visit with a stroll through Aosta's charming streets, perhaps enjoying some local cuisine. The tower serves as a unique historical marker in a region known for its stunning alpine scenery and rich cultural heritage.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Poignant History of the Leper's Tower
Beyond its role as a leper refuge, the tower has a lineage connected to noble families, with mentions dating back to 1191. This layered history, from Roman origins to medieval use and eventual restoration, makes it a fascinating site for those interested in archaeology and medieval history. While the tower cannot be visited internally, its exterior presence and the stories it holds continue to captivate those who seek out its unique historical narrative. Some visitors find the inability to enter enhances its mystery, fueling imaginations about its past.
The tower's historical significance has even been recognized by writers, with Gustaw Herling-Grudzinski citing it in his works, as noted on a plaque nearby. This literary connection further underscores the tower's enduring evocative charge. The Mauriziano Order acquired ownership in 1773, during which time a leper was confined within its walls. After a period of abandonment, it was restored in 1890, showcasing how dedicated care can preserve historical structures over time.
Experiencing the Leper's Tower Today
Travelers who appreciate archaeology and historical architecture will find the tower interesting, especially knowing its Roman foundations. The surrounding area is described as a field with some garbage piles, which might detract from the aesthetic for some, but the focus remains on the tower itself. It's recommended to research the tower's history before or during your visit to fully grasp its significance, as there may be limited interpretive information on-site.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit