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Nissod Chapel

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Last Visit: 19/01/2025

Access

Exiting the A5 motorway at Châtillon, turn left towards the town centre. When you reach the main square, turn right and follow the entire street to a crossroads. From here, continue straight on, following the signs for the hillside villages, particularly Domianaz. The road climbs the hill, passing through several villages, until you reach the turnoff for the panoramic road to Saint-Vincent, near Albard. You ignore this turnoff, turning left; after four hairpin bends, you arrive at the picturesque little church of Domianaz.
Continuing along the little road for about 6 kilometres, you pass a popular sports area. Next, with a series of bends, you reach the junction for Travod. Here, too, you ignore the turnoff to the right and follow the main road to the village of Nissod. Near a fountain 💧 there is a small car park 🅿️ where you can leave your car.
It is important to note that, during the winter season, the road is not cleared of snow. However, in the absence of snow, it is passable with due caution.

[0h29'] - [13.1km]
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The directions provided have been carefully checked as of the date the route was taken. However, it is highly recommended to check for any changes that may have occurred since then, especially regarding the route to the starting point. Before embarking on your journey, it is advisable to consult up-to-date navigation tools for accurate and up-to-date directions. We recommend the use of satellite navigation apps, such as Google Maps or Apple Maps, to ensure the most accurate and safe route.

Introduction

The Nissod chapel, located on the hill of Châtillon in Valle d'Aosta, is a small historical and artistic jewel that is well worth a visit for those who love places steeped in spirituality and tradition. Dedicated to Saint Bernard of Menton, patron saint of mountaineers and skiers, the chapel is also consecrated to Notre Dame de Tout Pouvoir and to the translation of the Holy Cross, profound symbols of protection and devotion for travellers and inhabitants of the area.

Description

The chapel façade is entirely frescoed by Gabriel Girardi, an artist known for his ability to depict scenes of faith intertwined with elements of the Alpine landscape. The central image depicts St Bernard of Menton against the backdrop of the Great St Bernard Pass, where the saint founded the famous hospice in 962. This representation is not only a tribute to the saint, but also a reminder of the surrounding mountains and their importance for local life and history.
A curious natural event has marked the chapel's recent history. Lightning struck the ancient cross dating back to 1700, causing it to fall and causing damage to the structure. Fortunately, no one was around at the time, but the episode left a mark on the community's memory, underlining the fragility and resilience of these sacred places.
The Nissod chapel blends harmoniously into the Aosta Valley landscape, between majestic mountains and serene valleys. It is a perfect place for a pause for reflection or to immerse oneself in local history, representing a meeting point between spirituality and the natural beauty of the region. A visit here offers not only the opportunity to discover an important piece of the Aosta Valley's cultural heritage, but also to enjoy the peace and tranquillity of an enchanted corner of the Alps.

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