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Astronomical Observatory of Saint-Barthélemy: Gaze at the Stars

Explore the cosmos at the Astronomical Observatory of Saint-Barthélemy, nestled in the heart of the Italian Alps.

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The Astronomical Observatory of Saint-Barthélemy, located in the Aosta Valley, offers visitors a chance to explore the universe through state-of-the-art telescopes and exhibits. It's a unique destination for stargazers of all ages, set in Italy's first Starlight Stellar Park.

A brief summary to Astronomical Observatory of Saint-Barthélemy

  • Tuesday 4 pm-5 pm
  • Wednesday 4 pm-5 pm
  • Thursday 4 pm-5 pm
  • Friday 4 pm-5 pm
  • Saturday 4 pm-5 pm

Local tips

  • Plan your visit during a clear night for the best stargazing experience.
  • Check the observatory's schedule for special events or guest lectures.
  • Dress warmly, as temperatures can drop significantly in the evenings.
  • Consider arriving early to enjoy the beautiful surroundings before the evening tours start.
  • Book night tours to enjoy the pristine starry sky and be fascinated by the stories of the planets and constellations.
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Getting There

  • Car

    If driving from Aosta, take the SS26 road towards Saint-Vincent. After about 20 km, take the exit for the SP10 towards Saint-Barthélemy. Continue on the SP10 for approximately 12 km. Look for signs for the Astronomical Observatory of Saint-Barthélemy. Parking is available on-site, and may incur a small fee. Expect to pay around €2-5 per hour for parking.

  • Public Transport

    From Aosta's main bus station, take the bus heading towards Saint-Vincent. Get off at the Saint-Barthélemy stop. From there, you can either walk approximately 2 km to the observatory or check local taxi services. Bus tickets can be purchased at the station; prices vary based on the route, but expect to pay around €3-5 for a single fare.

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Discover more about Astronomical Observatory of Saint-Barthélemy

Nestled in the scenic Aosta Valley, in the hamlet of Lignan, the Astronomical Observatory of Saint-Barthélemy stands as a beacon for stargazers and astronomy enthusiasts. Opened in 2003, this impressive facility is renowned for its state-of-the-art telescopes and knowledgeable staff. The Observatory provides visitors with a chance to explore the wonders of the universe. As you step into the observatory, you'll be greeted by interactive exhibits that make complex astronomical concepts accessible and engaging for all ages. Guided tours are available, where you can learn about celestial bodies, cosmic phenomena, and the latest discoveries in the field of astronomy. The observatory operates on a timetable that allows guests to experience the night sky at its best, with specific viewing hours tailored for a memorable experience. As darkness falls, the observatory comes alive, offering the opportunity to gaze through powerful telescopes at stars, planets, and galaxies. The Saint-Barthélemy area is the ideal location for anyone who loves to watch and study the sky at night. In fact, the entire area has earned recognition from the scientific community, obtaining Starlight Stellar Park certification, issued by the Starlight Foundation of the Institute of Astrophysics of the Canary Islands. It is also recognized by UNESCO as part of the international Starlight Initiative, for its protection of the night sky. The OAVdA is the only Observatory in Italy to have a research, teaching and awareness-raising activities agreement with the National Institute of Astrophysics (INAF). The OAVdA is equipped with many state-of-the-art facilities, including the Heliophysics Laboratory, which lets you look at the Sun without the risk of damaging your eyes.

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