Founded in the Longobard era, San Michele was highly considered by the sovereigns. At the end of the nineteenth century it became the preferred venue for royal worship and in particular for incoronation ceremonies.

The architecture of the church is a masterpiece of Italian Romanesque style. The three façades, like the pillars and the decorative elements of the interior are in sandstone from the Oltrepò.

On the main screening façade, it is still possible to see the bas reliefs with biblical themes and imaginary animals, but the sculptures above the portals are less well preserved