Turin, overshadowed by the nearby Milan, receives unfairly little attention. The city’s image and atmosphere are defined by the medieval rule of the House of Savoy.
It is the fourth most populous city in Italy after Rome, Milan, and Naples, and the capital of Piedmont. It is an important business, cultural, and educational center.
Located in Northwest Italy, it is bordered by the Alps to the north and west, and the Monferrato hills to the south. The Po River divides the city into a hillside and a flat area. Its highest point is the Colle della Maddalena (715 meters).
Discover the best museums in Turin in a separate article!
Table of Contents
Turin attractions
Mole Antonelliana
The symbol of Turin, dominating the city’s skyline with its height of 167.5 meters.
Construction began in 1863, shortly after the unification of Italy, and was completed in 1889, after the death of the architect, Alessandro Antonelli. It was the world’s tallest masonry building in the 19th century.
Originally designed as a synagogue, it now houses the (Italian) National Cinema Museum. The Catalan vaults on the ground floor ceiling beneath the atrium are relatively rare in Italy but popular in Spain, where they originate.
For math enthusiasts, an interesting fact is that the numbers of the Fibonacci sequence light up on the exterior of the dome at night. 🙂
Piazza San Carlo
One of Turin’s most important historical squares, developed in the 17th century during the reign of Prince Carlo Emanuele I of Savoy.
The square stands out for its impressive size and elegant baroque architecture. In the center are two significant statues depicting important members of the House of Savoy, Emanuele Filiberto and Carlo Alberto.
Palatine Gate
One of the most important Roman-era relics in Turin, and a significant ancient remnant in the region.
It was the northern gate of the Roman city of Julia Augusta Taurinorum, built in the 1st century AD. The gate was part of the ancient Roman city walls and was one of the main entrances to the city. It has been modified over time, but its original structure remains.
It features two massive square towers. Roman-era wall remains and other archaeological findings are also found near the gate.
Royal Palace (Palazzo Reale)
A symbol of the city, the palace and its gardens are part of UNESCO World Heritage.
Its history dates back to the 16th century when Emanuele Filiberto, Prince of Savoy, chose Turin as the capital of the House of Savoy. The original building was significantly expanded and transformed during the 17th and 18th centuries. It became a symbol of the power and wealth of the Savoy dynasty and served as the family’s main residence until Italian unification.
Today, the palace is home to a rich art collection that showcases the history and art of the House of Savoy. The collection includes objects of aristocratic lifestyle, ancient weapons, porcelains, furniture, and portraits of the dynasty members. Notably, the armory is one of Europe’s most significant weapon collections.
Madama Palace (Palazzo Madama)
Another defining building of Turin, also linked to the history of the Savoy.
Originally a medieval fortress built on the site of an ancient Roman gate, it was later transformed by the House of Savoy. The palace is named after two widowed princesses of the House of Savoy, Christine Marie and Marie Jeanne Baptiste, who lived there in the 17th and 18th centuries.
In 1718, Filippo Juvarra adorned the building with a baroque façade, which remains one of its most significant features. The interior includes the old chapel, the princesses’ apartments, and several ornate rooms and galleries.
It now houses the Turin Art Museum, which has a comprehensive collection ranging from antiquities to modern art. The museum’s collection emphasizes ceramics, paintings, baroque furniture, and decorative art pieces.
Carignano Palace (Palazzo Carignano)
This building played an important role in the formation of Italian unity, making it a significant site in the country.
Built in the 17th century for the princely branch of Savoy-Carignano, it was designed by Guarino Guarini, a prominent figure in baroque architecture. It hosted the first Italian parliament in 1861 when Italy became a unified state.
Its exterior is notable for its ornate baroque style. The building’s centerpiece is an arched, domed central section, making it unique.
Today, it hosts the Museum of the Risorgimento, which presents the history of Italy’s unification.
Valentino Park
Turin’s largest public park, located along the banks of the Po River. The park spans over 500,000 square meters and features numerous walkways and flower gardens.
The park contains the Borgo Medievale, a replica of a medieval village showcasing old Piedmontese architectural styles.
Valentino Castle
Located in the Parco del Valentino, this castle was also built for the Savoy family.
The 16th-century building was transformed into a Baroque style in the 17th century. The castle has several elegant halls reflecting the former royal and princely lifestyle.
It is currently home to the Faculty of Architecture of the Polytechnic University of Turin.
La Venaria Reale
This royal palace complex, located in the northern part of Turin, is also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
It was built in the 17th century by Prince Charles Emmanuel II as a hunting lodge. Over time, it became one of the most splendid residences of the House of Savoy. The most important rooms of the palace include the Great Gallery, the Diana Rooms, and the Chapel of Saint Hubert.
Today, it operates as a museum and exhibition center, showcasing the history and art of the House of Savoy. The exhibits include contemporary furniture, paintings, sculptures, textiles, ceramics, and other art objects, reflecting the former rulers’ lifestyle.
Villa della Regina
This was the home of the queens of the House of Savoy and is also part of the UNESCO World Heritage.
The building and its gardens are outstanding examples of Italian Baroque garden and architectural styles. The villa is situated on a hillside, offering a splendid view of the city.
Today, it hosts various art and historical exhibitions. The collection includes period furniture, paintings, and decorative art objects.
Mastio della Cittadella
Located in the city center, this is one of Turin’s historic fortresses, playing an important role in the defense of the city and its surroundings.
Built in the 16th century as part of the Cittadella fortress, commissioned by the House of Savoy for the city’s defense. The fortress served as a central element of the city’s defense system, particularly important in the defense against Spanish and French attacks. Over the centuries, the fortress has survived several sieges and was of significant military importance until the 19th century.
The fortress has a distinctive tower that towers over the city and offers impressive views.
Today, its interior functions as an exhibition space, frequently hosting various exhibitions.
Turin’s most important churches
Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist (Cattedrale di San Giovanni Battista)
The city’s main cathedral and the seat of the archbishopric of Turin. It is known for the Shroud of Turin.
Built in the 15th century on the site of a Romanesque church, based on the designs of Guarino Guarini. The building combines elements of Renaissance and Baroque styles and has undergone several renovations and restorations over the years. The interior is impressive, with a finely carved altar, frescoed ceiling, and stained glass windows.
The Shroud of Turin is one of the most important and controversial relics of Christianity. It is believed to be the cloth that wrapped the body of Christ after his crucifixion. The shroud’s history is incomplete, but it is known that it came into the possession of the House of Savoy around 1450 and was moved to Turin from Chambéry in 1578. The original shroud is exhibited only once every ten years.
Church of Santa Maria del Monte
Located on a hill along the Po River, the church offers a beautiful view of the city.
Built in the 16th century by the Capuchin order, it has since been closely connected to the city’s religious and cultural life. Its interior is most noteworthy, adorned with frescoes, statues depicting saints, and a richly carved altar. The frescoes on the ceiling and walls depict biblical stories and aspects of the Christian faith.
Basilica of Superga (Basilica di Superga)
Located to the east of the city, this church plays an important role in the history of Turin.
Construction of the basilica began in 1717 and was completed in 1731. It was built under the orders of Victor Amadeus II, Duke of Savoy, based on the designs of the renowned Baroque architect Filippo Juvarra. The basilica also served as a burial place for members of the House of Savoy.
In 1949, a plane crash occurred here, leading to the death of 31 people, including the FC Torino football team. A memorial can be seen next to the church.
The basilica is also a viewpoint, offering stunning views of Turin and the surrounding Alps.
It can be reached by car, bus, or the historic Superga rack railway (whose lower terminus is in the Sassi district, accessible by bus from the city center).
Church of the Great Mother of God (Chiesa della Gran Madre di Dio)
Located along the Po River, at the foot of the Ponte Vittorio Emanuele I bridge.
The church was built in the early 19th century, following Napoleon’s downfall, as a symbol of Italian unity and independence, and to commemorate the restoration of the power of the House of Savoy.
Designed by Fernando Bonsignore in a neoclassical style, it is modeled after the Pantheon and other ancient Roman temples. The exterior of the church is characterized by a large portico and a row of columns surrounding the main entrance. Two statues in front of the church symbolize faith and religion.
Basilica of Maria Ausiliatrice
One of the most important churches of the Salesian order, its name translates to Basilica of Mary Help of Christians.
Built on the initiative of Saint John Bosco, the founder of the order, who worked with underprivileged children. His tomb is located here.
A magnificent classic Baroque-style church, its façade depicts important scenes from the life of Mary and Christian teachings.