If you’re drawn to stories that blend history, intrigue, and a touch of the supernatural, the Notturno al Manicomio di Collegno promises a compelling experience. This guided nocturnal tour gives visitors an exclusive look into Italy’s largest former asylum, with access to private archives and historic sites that are usually off-limits. From the moment we learned about this tour, we knew it would be a fascinating blend of education and haunting ambiance — and it certainly delivers.
We love the exclusive nighttime access that allows you to explore the asylum in an entirely different light, the insight into past treatments and patient stories that humanize this chilling chapter of Italian mental health history, and the opportunity to visit the majestic Certosa Reale, a stunning location with its own layered history. That said, this experience might not be for everyone — it’s quite atmospheric and can be intense, especially for those sensitive to eerie settings or with mobility issues. Ideal for history buffs, architecture lovers, and anyone curious about the darker corners of Italy’s past, this tour offers a unique and thought-provoking night out.
Key Points
- Exclusive Night Entrance: Access the site after hours, adding an atmospheric edge to the experience.
- Historical Archives: Get rare insights from unpublished documents, vintage photos, and artifacts usually hidden from the public.
- Historic Site Visits: Explore the 17th-century Certosa Reale and learn about its transformation into a psychiatric hospital.
- Guided by Experts: The tour is led by the asylum’s archivist, a passionate storyteller and witness to its history.
- Authentic Atmosphere: Experience the eerie ambiance of the asylum by night, blending history with a touch of mystery.
- Value for Money: At $38 per person, it’s a reasonably priced, in-depth look at a significant piece of Italy’s past.
The Notturno al Manicomio di Collegno kicks off with a prompt start — it’s important to arrive 15 minutes early to gather and prepare for the adventure. The meeting point is straightforward, and the tour duration runs approximately two and a half hours, which feels just right for an evening of exploration without fatigue. The tour is conducted mainly in Italian, so some language skills will help you fully appreciate the narration and storytelling.
You can check availability for your dates here:Exclusive Night Entrance and Atmosphere
Walking through the gates after hours immediately sets a different tone. The asylum’s hauntingly silent corridors and deserted pavilions are transformed in the moonlight, creating a sense of stepping back in time. The darkness amplifies every creak and echo, making this an experience that’s both captivating and slightly unsettling. The guides emphasize that this is a “ghastly place by night,” which adds to the mystique, especially for those who find the silence of old hospitals and abandoned buildings compelling.
Looking for more options in Collegno? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Guided Tour: Between Normal Life and Madness
Led by the asylum’s archivist, who is one of the last living witnesses of the site’s history, the tour expertly balances historical facts with storytelling. We loved the way the guides, especially Elisa and Lillo, brought stories to life — from patient revolts to infamous cases like the “Smemorato di Collegno,” the amnesiac who puzzled doctors. The archivist shares unpublished documents, vintage photographs, and original artifacts, making this part of the experience deeply authentic.
One reviewer mentioned that the most interesting part was the storytelling performance by an actor, possibly a theater professional, who portrayed “The Amnesiac of Collegno.” This theatrical element adds a layer of emotional engagement, making the history feel alive rather than just a series of facts.
Visiting the Certosa Reale
A highlight of the evening is the visit to the Certosa Reale, a 17th-century monastic complex that later became central to the psychiatric hospital. Its architecture and surroundings are impressive, with centuries of history to uncover, from religious orders to a place of mental health treatment. The guides retrace this transformation, helping you understand how the site evolved over the centuries.
The Archives: Uncovering Human Stories
One of the tour’s most rare and valuable aspects is access to the asylum’s historical archive, usually off-limits to the public. Here, visitors can see documents and photographs that paint a vivid picture of life inside the institution. It’s a profoundly human experience — seeing the handwritten notes, photographs of patients, and artifacts that personalize what might otherwise feel like distant history. As one reviewer noted, this part of the tour “touches you deeply and makes you think a lot.”
More Great Tours NearbyWhat Others Say
While many find the experience enlightening and haunting, some feedback points to the tour’s brevity and focus. A reviewer named Denise mentioned feeling that they saw “very little,” as much of the external site was accessible without a guided tour, which can be frustrating if you’re expecting a comprehensive inside look. But she also praised the performance of the actor portraying the Amnesiac, highlighting the theatrical element as a bright spot. Conversely, others appreciated the knowledgeable guides and felt the tour flew by, describing it as “interesting and well-paced.”
Price: At $38 per person, this tour offers good value considering the exclusive access, expert guidance, and in-depth storytelling. It’s a reasonably priced way to explore a significant historical site with added atmospheric charm.
Duration: Approximately 2.5 hours — enough time to absorb the stories without feeling rushed, though be prepared for some walking and standing.
Language: The tour is conducted in Italian, so some understanding of the language will enhance your experience, especially as the guides tell detailed stories and historical facts.
What’s Included: Guided tour, exclusive access to the archives, and entry to the Certosa Reale.
What’s Not: Food, drinks, or transportation — plan accordingly. No hotel pickup is provided, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.
Restrictions: Not suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, or people with mobility issues. Strollers, drones, alcohol, and party groups are also not allowed.
Weather: The tour runs rain or shine, so dress appropriately and wear comfortable shoes — the exploration involves some walking outdoors.
This experience is perfect for history enthusiasts, especially those interested in psychiatry, architecture, or Italian history. The atmospheric night setting elevates the experience for anyone who likes a dash of mystery or a slightly eerie vibe. It’s also ideal for small groups who appreciate personalized storytelling, and for those who wish to see a rarely accessible part of Italy’s past through genuine archives and historic sites.
However, casual travelers or families with very young children might find it less suitable due to the dark, potentially unsettling environment, and the limited time inside the asylum itself. The tour’s focus on history and archives makes it less about entertainment and more about authentic storytelling and reflection.
The Notturno al Manicomio di Collegno offers a compelling glimpse into Italy’s psychiatric past, wrapped in a mysterious nocturnal atmosphere. Its combination of exclusive archive access, historical storytelling, and the majestic Certosa Reale makes it a richly layered experience that appeals to history buffs and those interested in the unusual.
For under $40, you receive more than just a walk-through — you get a chance to connect with human stories, witness a hauntingly beautiful location, and experience a slice of Italy’s layered history, all under the cover of night. The knowledgeable guides, especially the archivist, breathe life into the stories, making this tour both educational and deeply moving.
This tour is best suited for travelers who crave authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences that explore the darker, more contemplative side of history. If you’re open to a slightly eerie but profoundly meaningful exploration, this will be a night to remember.
Is the tour suitable for children?
No, it is not recommended for children under 12 due to the potentially unsettling atmosphere and the nature of the stories told.
Do I need to know Italian to understand the tour?
Yes, the tour is conducted in Italian, so some understanding of the language will be helpful to fully enjoy the narration.
Are there any accessibility limitations?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or pregnant women, as it involves walking through historic buildings and outdoor areas.
What should I wear?
Dress comfortably and appropriately for the weather; it’s recommended to bring a flashlight, as the site is explored at night.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in your planning.
Is food or drink allowed during the tour?
No, drinks and alcohol are not permitted, and food is not included in the experience.
To sum it up, the Notturno al Manicomio di Collegno provides a rare, evocative opportunity to explore Italy’s psychiatric history through a captivating nighttime tour. It’s an ideal choice for travelers seeking meaningful, authentic encounters with cultural and historical sites that are often hidden or overlooked during daylight hours. The combination of expert storytelling, exclusive archive access, and atmospheric surroundings makes it a memorable addition to any Italian itinerary.
You can check availability for your dates here: