If you ever happen to find yourself staying in a vacation rental, in Turin, make sure you take the time to visit the Piazza Castello, known as the heart of the city. The Palazzo Reale dominates the piazza but it also houses the Palazzo Madama, Teatro Regio di Torino (Opera House), Biblioteca Reale (Royal Library) and the Torre Littoria (a leftover from the fascist era). Concerts and public events are often held in the square and it connects neatly with the nearby shopping districts.
The Piazza Castello was established in the 14th century by princes of the House of Savoy who wanted a space near the city walls and castle that could host dynastic events.
The Piazza Castello was established in the 14th century by princes of the House of Savoy who wanted a space near the city walls and castle that could host dynastic events.
In the 16th century it was squared off and made more symmetrical and elegant and multiple façades were rejuvenated by architect, Juvarra, in the 18th century. Since then, modernity has barely infiltrated the piazza, leaving it the historical and political fulcrum of the city that it has always been. If you are new to the city, it's a great place to start off.
To begin, you could head into the Palazzo Madama and experience over a thousand years worth of history in one building. Roman foundations and origins, a 14th century castle and Baroque alterations house a collection of local art and crafts from ancient times up until the 18th century.
To begin, you could head into the Palazzo Madama and experience over a thousand years worth of history in one building. Roman foundations and origins, a 14th century castle and Baroque alterations house a collection of local art and crafts from ancient times up until the 18th century.
A special exhibition is also taking place for the period of the Exposition of the Turin shroud this summer which displays Da Vinci's self-portrait. While there be sure to check out the botanic gardens and rooftop views as well.
Next, wander across the square to Palazzo Reale - free to visit on the first Sunday of each month. This 16th century palace of the House of Savoy is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Beyond beautiful and imposing, it is a wonderful place to stroll through. It also houses the Chapel of the Holy Shroud but if you want to see the Turin Shroud this summer, you'll need to go to the Duomo, or Cathedral, behind the square where you can view it between April 19th and June 24th 2015.
If you're feeling in the mood to catch a show, check out what's playing in the Teatro Regio during your stay. A gorgeous building and fascinating in its own right, it holds exhibitions and guided tours during the day and sees the performances of 10 titles in opera or ballet a year from October to June – if it's good enough to attract Napoleon three times, it must be worth a visit!
Of course, there's much more to see in Turin outside the Piazza Castello but this awe-inspiring space is a highlight of the city and will give you a real sense of its history.
Next, wander across the square to Palazzo Reale - free to visit on the first Sunday of each month. This 16th century palace of the House of Savoy is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Beyond beautiful and imposing, it is a wonderful place to stroll through. It also houses the Chapel of the Holy Shroud but if you want to see the Turin Shroud this summer, you'll need to go to the Duomo, or Cathedral, behind the square where you can view it between April 19th and June 24th 2015.
If you're feeling in the mood to catch a show, check out what's playing in the Teatro Regio during your stay. A gorgeous building and fascinating in its own right, it holds exhibitions and guided tours during the day and sees the performances of 10 titles in opera or ballet a year from October to June – if it's good enough to attract Napoleon three times, it must be worth a visit!
Of course, there's much more to see in Turin outside the Piazza Castello but this awe-inspiring space is a highlight of the city and will give you a real sense of its history.