Time has stopped in this village where you’ll discover great ancient and modern architecture: from the Introd Castle with its tower dated 1200 to a perfectly preserved barn from late Middle Ages; imposing bridges and sites full of spirituality that were the frames of Pope John Paul II’s prayers.
The Castle was built around 1260 AD by a nobleman, Pierre Sarriod, son of Marc. His descendants lived in the Castle until 1910. According to historians, the central main tower could have been built before the Castle, as confirmed by a document of 1244 AD, concerning the authorization to raise the height of the tower. Originally, the Castle had an octagonal shape, as documented by many pictures of the beginning of the 20th century. Afterwards, in 1910, the aspect of the building changed significantly, following intense restorations. Since the summer of 2008 it was possible to visit the striking Castle of Introd and the exhibition in the interior of Santo Sudario Chapel. Let yourself be silently enchanted by its timeless atmosphere!
The Ôla is an extraordinary example of alpine architecture built in the 14th century, close to the castle. It’s been used for many centuries as horse-stable and hayloft, constituted by two buildings united. The first, more ancient, is characterised by arched doorways and topped by a pavilion roof; the second, leaning against the first one – most likely since the second half of the 15th century – shows a very peculiar structure with a large brim with southern exposure and 5 stone pillars with a large diameter.
There is a magnificent structure, in wood and stone, close to the Castle that was once used by the Sarriod family as a barn. A small door is the entrance to the basement, composed by two rooms, once provided with airshaft windows, now completely buried. Probably realized near the second half of 15th century, this complex has been built on a previous structure, definitely before the 14th century.
Pope Benedict XVI and Pope John Paul II have spent many summers in Introd, at Les Combes village, alternating relaxing mountain hiking to intense moments of prayer, reading and meditation. To Saint John Paul II are dedicated the small Chapel erected as Sanctuary that also contains a relic, and the nearby museum “Maison Musée Jean Paul II”, with its collection of objects, documents and photos.
The Holy Father, every year, used to walk along the Introd paths and his prayers and reflections were surrounded by the beautiful nature of these places. Here he could regain contact with the beauty of the created world. Here are his own words: “The mountains are not only a magnificent scenario to admire but almost a school of life”.
The Introd church has very ancient origins, built on a sacred area dating from the Neolithic era. The belfry spire is one the most slender in Valle d’Aosta, almost 15 meters tall. The Chapel of Saint Suaire deserves a special mention as it is one of the most ancient of our region.
The toponym “Introd” comes from “entre les eaux” (between waters). The village is situated at the confluence of the Dora of Rhêmes and the stream Savara. Its geographical position determines the importance of its bridges as only way of connection. The Pon-Vioù bridge, dated 1828, has been until 1916 the only access to the local capital. On the parapet at the center of the bridge stands an impressive stone cross. The Pon-Nou bridge, 89 meters tall, is the tallest bridge in the whole region. The deep canyons where these two bridges are erected are a sight not to be missed.
