Nestled in the heart of Italy, Torino is a city brimming with historical and architectural marvels that captivate visitors from all corners of the globe. The city is home to a stunning array of buildings that showcase a blend of Baroque, Renaissance, and modern styles, making it a paradise for architecture enthusiasts.
What are the must-see architectural gems in Torino?
Exploring the city’s rich architectural heritage allows one to experience its vibrant history and cultural evolution.
From grand palaces to intricate churches, Torino offers a visual feast for those who appreciate fine design and historical significance.
1. Mole Antonelliana
The Mole Antonelliana is a major landmark in Turin, Italy.
Originally designed by Alessandro Antonelli, construction started in 1863 and completed in 1889. The building was named after its architect.
Although it was initially intended to be a synagogue, the Mole Antonelliana now houses the National Museum of Cinema. This museum is one of the most important in the world.
One of the highlights of the Mole Antonelliana is its panoramic lift.
The lift takes visitors 85 meters up to a viewing platform, offering breathtaking views of Turin. Visitors can enjoy the stunning architecture both inside and outside the building.
For more information, visit Mole Antonelliana.
2. Palazzo Madama
Palazzo Madama stands in the heart of Turin and is one of its most celebrated landmarks. It is both a palace and a fortress, blending different architectural styles across centuries.
Originally a Roman gate, it was later transformed into a residence and institutional building. It received its name from the queens of the House of Savoy, who played a significant role in its development.
The building is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, noted for its majestic facade and rich history. The interior features an anthology of historical and architectural styles.
Palazzo Madama also houses a significant collection of art and artifacts, making it a prominent museum in Turin. Visitors can explore its various exhibits and learn more about Italy’s cultural heritage by visiting its official website.
3. Palazzo Reale
Palazzo Reale, also known as the Royal Palace of Turin, is one of the city’s most famous landmarks.
Built in the 16th century, it served as the residence of the House of Savoy.
The palace was modernized in the 17th century by Christine Marie of France. The Baroque architect Filippo Juvarra contributed to its design.
This historic palace is centrally located in Turin and includes the Palazzo Chiablese and the Chapel of the Holy Shroud. Visitors can explore its lavish rooms and beautiful gardens.
Palazzo Reale is a must-visit for anyone interested in history and architecture. More information can be found on the Royal Palaces in Turin.
4. Basilica di Superga
The Basilica di Superga stands as a majestic church on the hill of Superga, overlooking Turin.
Built between 1717 and 1731, its design is attributed to the talented architect Filippo Juvarra.
This Baroque-style structure combines elements from various earlier styles, resulting in a unique and striking appearance. It was commissioned by Victor Amadeus II of Savoy as a vow made during the Battle of Turin in 1706.
Visitors can enjoy stunning views of Turin from the hilltop.
The basilica’s opening hours are from 10 am to 1.30 pm and 2.30 pm to 7 pm (until 5 pm in winter). On Sundays, it is open from 10 am to 7 pm (until 6 pm in winter) (Fearlessly Italy).
Accessing the basilica is easy via the number 15 city tram from Piazza Castello, followed by a rack tramway ride from Sassi-Superga (My Five Acres).
This journey offers an enjoyable way to experience the city’s transit system.
5. Castello del Valentino
Castello del Valentino is one of the most iconic buildings in Turin. Located in Parco del Valentino, it serves as the home of the Architecture Faculty of the Polytechnic University of Turin.
The castle dates back to the 16th century and was once a hunting lodge. It was later expanded in the 17th century.
Christine of France commissioned its reconstruction in 1660, adding porticoes and columns around an oval courtyard, creating a striking visual effect.
This historic building is also part of the Residences of the Royal House of Savoy, which were included in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 1997. To learn more, visit Castello del Valentino.
6. Villa della Regina
Villa della Regina is a stunning example of Baroque architecture located in Turin, Italy.
Originally built by the House of Savoy in the 17th century, it served as a royal residence. The villa is perched on a hillside, offering breathtaking views over the city.
One of its unique features is the royal wine vineyard surrounding it, creating a picturesque backdrop. The villa’s gardens are designed in a traditional Italian style, complete with fountains and statues.
In 1997, the villa was added to the UNESCO World Heritage Site list along with other residences of the Savoy family. This recognition highlights its historical and cultural significance.
Visitors today can explore the villa, its gardens, and enjoy the serene environment it offers.
To know more, visit the Villa della Regina.
7. Palazzo Carignano
Palazzo Carignano is a striking historical building located in the heart of Turin.
This beautiful Baroque structure was completed in 1685. Designed by the renowned architect Guarino Guarini, it features a unique rounded façade that sets it apart from other buildings in the area.
Initially, Palazzo Carignano was the private residence of the Princes of Carignano. Today, it houses the Museum of the Risorgimento, which tells the story of the Italian unification during the 19th century.
In 1997, the building was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is recognized as part of the Residences of the Royal House of Savoy. Visitors are often captivated by both its architectural beauty and its historical significance.
For more information, you can visit Palazzo Carignano on Wikipedia.
8. Chiesa di San Lorenzo
Chiesa di San Lorenzo, also known as the Royal Church of Saint Lawrence, stands as a stunning example of Baroque architecture in Turin.
Designed by Guarino Guarini, the church was constructed between 1668 and 1687.
The church is located near the Royal Palace of Turin. This proximity underscores its importance within the city’s historical and architectural landscape.
One of the most striking features of Chiesa di San Lorenzo is its impressive dome. The unique design and engineering of the dome attract many visitors and architecture enthusiasts.
For more about its historical significance and architectural details, you can visit the San Lorenzo Church page.
9. Galleria Subalpina
Galleria Subalpina, located between Piazza Castello and Piazza Carlo Alberto, is a historic shopping arcade in Turin.
Built in 1873, it showcases a blend of Baroque and Renaissance architectural styles.
The arcade features a striking glass dome and intricate decorative elements created by sculptor Pietro Rubino. It houses various shops, cafes, and a movie theater, including the famous Baratti & Milano coffee shop.
The central fountain adds to its charm, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
The gallery offers a nostalgic glimpse into 19th-century Turin, providing a unique backdrop for a leisurely stroll or a quick coffee.
Discover more about the Galleria Subalpina.
10. Piazza Castello
Piazza Castello stands as the historical heart of Torino. It’s where the four main streets of the city meet: Via Garibaldi, Via Po, Via Roma, and Via Pietro Micca. This square has been central to city life since the Roman era.
At the center of Piazza Castello is the famous Palazzo Madama. This building has a unique double facade, looking like a castle on one side and a palace on the other. Visitors can climb to its roof for a panoramic view of the city.
Surrounding the square are other important buildings and landmarks, making it a bustling and lively area. The square is often filled with locals and tourists enjoying its cafes and shops.
Piazza Castello is a must-visit spot for anyone wanting to experience Torino’s rich history and vibrant culture.
More on Piazza Castello can be found here.
Architectural Styles in Torino
Torino, Italy, is a blend of diverse architectural styles. From the intricate designs of the Baroque period to the clean lines of Modernist structures, each style adds a unique character to the city.
Baroque Architecture
Baroque architecture in Torino is characterized by its lavish and dramatic designs.
The Superga Basilica showcases a soaring dome supported on grand Corinthian columns. This style often features flamboyant elements such as curves, gilded decorations, and elaborate frescoes.
Palazzo Carignano is another example, displaying a stunning façade adorned with intricate patterns. The interiors often include grand staircases and elaborate chandeliers, which enhance the sense of opulence. Walking through Torino’s Baroque buildings feels like stepping into an art piece.
Renaissance Architecture
Renaissance architecture brought a sense of symmetry and proportion to Torino.
Buildings from this period often feature large domes, pillars, and rounded arches. The Palazzo Reale is a key example, originally built in the 16th century as a royal residence. Its balanced design and classical elements reflect the Renaissance ideals of harmony and beauty.
The use of geometric shapes and detailed stonework are prominent features. The spacious courtyards and detailed façades served both functional and decorative purposes. These buildings often incorporated elements from Roman and Greek architecture, adapted to fit the Renaissance aesthetic.
Modernist Structures
Modernist architecture in Torino offers a stark contrast to its historical counterparts.
The Mole Antonelliana stands out with its unique design and towering spire. Initially conceived as a synagogue, it now houses the National Cinema Museum.
Modernist buildings often emphasize functionality, featuring clean lines, minimal ornamentation, and innovative materials like glass and steel.
The rationalist architecture by architects such as Luigi Nervi and Carlo Mollino also leaves a significant impact on the city’s skyline. These structures reflect a forward-thinking approach, marrying aesthetic simplicity with technological advancements.
Historical Significance of Torino’s Architecture
Torino’s architecture is steeped in history, reflecting its rich cultural heritage and royal legacy.
Key highlights include exquisite royal residences and majestic religious structures that showcase Baroque and Renaissance styles.
Royal Residences
Torino houses several royal palaces that bear witness to its royal past.
The Palazzo Madama is one of the most emblematic, embodying a blend of medieval and Baroque architecture. Initially a Roman gate, it evolved over centuries into a magnificent palace, now a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Another significant residence is the Palazzo Reale, which served as the Savoy family’s primary residence. It features opulent rooms decorated with frescoes and tapestries and intricate stuccos, providing a glimpse into the grandeur of royal life.
Moreover, the Palazzina di Caccia di Stupinigi is a hunting lodge that showcases Rococo architecture. Designed by Filippo Juvarra, it is famous for its stunning hall of mirrors and ornate decorations.
These royal residences not only display architectural beauty but also tell stories of Torino’s historical and political significance.
Churches and Religious Buildings
Religious architecture in Torino includes several standout churches that reflect historical and architectural evolution.
The Church of San Lorenzo is a masterpiece by Guarino Guarini, noted for its innovative dome. The dome lets light filter in through intricate patterns, and it’s a prime example of Baroque architecture.
Another important site is the Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist, which houses the Shroud of Turin. Built in the late 15th century, this cathedral combines elements of Renaissance and Gothic styles.
The Basilica of Superga stands on a hill overlooking Torino, designed by Juvarra, and is another Baroque treasure. Its striking position and elegant dome make it a significant landmark, symbolizing religious devotion and architectural achievement in Torino.