Land of the ancient Salassov

In ancient times, Valle d'Aosta was at the intersection of trade routes in Italy, France and Switzerland. It visited the conquerors from many countries. In these places, the Carthaginian general Hannibal, fighting with Rome, passed the Alps and invaded Italy. In the history of the name of the warlike tribe living salassov. Half century, they resisted Rome, defending not only their independence, but also ... the local gold-bearing placers. In the years that the most successful for salassov, the Romans paid them for the right of passage through the valley. For many preserved historical sights, the Aosta called Alpine Rome. About time the mighty empire in the capital region resembles many things: built to commemorate the victory over salassami triumphal arch of Emperor Augustus at the entrance to the city, Praetorian gate in its center, the fortress walls, the remains of the theater and amphitheater, an aqueduct with padded inside the pedestrian tunnel, Villa Della Consolata, humpbacked bridge over DoraBaltea .... In the village of Les Combes is the official summer residence of the Pope, where a museum of John Paul II, and near the town of Saint-Vincent has the largest casino in Europe. In the Valley, about 100 of medieval castles and towers, occupying an important strategic height. Mainly along the river Dora Baltea. These stone structures are here for one kilometer is greater than in the Rhine Valley. In June 1857, during his first overseas trip in Valle d'Aosta has visited 29-year-old Leo Tolstoy. He became the first known representatives of Russian culture, who visited the mountainous region, and left notes on his journey.