On the town's name, of certain Latin origins, the historians do not record similar opinions: for some it derives from the family name "Caesius", while for others from "Caesa" (cut) in reference to the large cultivation of trees in the area.
A mountain village in the province of Turin, located in Upper Susa Valley, bordering with France, it is divided into several districts. It has become an important touristic resort, favored by the beauty of the area and the proximity to a well equipped ski area and being located near to Claviere, Sestriere and San Sicario.
Some historical documents attest the existence of a settlement in the area since the Roman ages, located along the road which connected the Gallia with the Po Valley. During the Middle Ages it became a key artery for the passage of troops and supplies. The town was ruled by the Counts of Albon until the second half of the XIV century, an era in which the territories were ceded to the French. In the XII century Cesana coined its own silver money. In the XIV century the Republic of Escartons and Cesana was founded, which remained in power until the XVIII century, period in which it was sold to the House of Savoy. Over the centuries the town and its inhabitants were involved in several wars, such as the religious ones against the Waldenses and those of the Spanish Succession, during which it suffered extensive damage. The municipality was established in 1928 by the merge of seven existing smaller centers.

Not to miss:
- the Parish Church of St. John the Baptist, built on the remains of an earlier XI century church, of which some traces are still evidenced on the façade and three apses. Precious is the coffered wooden ceiling dating from the XVIII century. Inside is preserved a marble baptismal font;
- the Church of the Madonna of the Snow in the district of Bousson, built in the XVII century and features a beautiful carved stone portal;
- the Church of the Maternity of Mary in San Sicario;
- the Church of San Giuliano in Fenils;
- the Church of Santa Maria Maddalena in Thures;
- the Church of Santa Margherita in Desertes;
- the House of tombstones in Bousson.