The name derives from the ancient word, "Sauza" (rocky place). Municipality in the province of Turin, devoted mainly to agriculture and tourism, it is located where the Val di Susa gives way to the plain of Oulx, overlooked by Mount Genevris. The old center is positioned in an enviable location and features the characteristics of a mountain village, while the newer area has been built nearby, Sportinia, which has become a popular Winter sports center at approx. 2100 meters above sea level on Mount Triplex. In the Summer the area offers trekking possibilities or relaxing walks surrounded by nature, with the intent to discover new suggestive corners between the magnificent panoramas. The area features high quality hospitality facilities with excellent hotels, bars and restaurants.
The town has ancient origins, as evidenced by Celtic artifacts found in the area. The Sauvincatii settled here, whilst Goths, Lombards, Burgundians and Saracens camped here during their raids in the nearby . It was under the control of the Abbey of Novalesa, ruled by the Parish of Oulx at first and later by the Dauphiné and the Republic of Escartons. Involved in religious conflicts between Catholics and Waldensians in the XVIII century it became part of the territory of Savoy. Since the early XX century the whole area is devoted to tourism, attracting visitors from all over Europe and was seat of the 2006 Olympic Winter Games.

Not to miss:
- the Parish of St. John the Baptist of the XVI century presents a simple-looking façade, a Romanesque Bell tower surmounted by an octagonal spire and interrupted by mullioned windows. It preserves inside a wooden table of the XVIII century and a decorated baptismal font.
- the Chapel of Saint Anthony Abbot in Jounvenceaux, where it is possible to admire frescoes from the XV-XVI centuries.
- the Chalet of the Black Lake, an expression of the architecture of '900, built and designed by Mollino.
- the Liberty Tree located in front of the parish from 1793, a tribute to pay homage to the French Revolution.