Basilica of Superga, dedicated to the Nativity of Maria, was constructed at the beginning of the 18th century based on a design by Filippo Juvarra. It stands as one of the finest examples of the Baroque style. It was commissioned by Vittorio Amedeo II, and it serves as the final resting place for the princes and kings of the Savoy family, except for Carlo Alberto. Additionally, the church commemorates the Turin football team, which tragically lost their lives in an air disaster on December 4th, 1949.
Behind a 16th-century facade lies the opulent, Baroque interiors of the palatial residence of the House of Savoy. The Royal Palace is an architectural triumph that highlights the luxuries enjoyed by the royalty of that time. Although originally built in the 16th Century, much of the interiors reflect the Baroque style of architecture and its exuberant use of artistic details. An abundance of gilded frames, intricate stucco embellishments, vivid paintings and rich carvings make up the corpus of the decor. Additions made in later years can be credited to the vision of architect, Filippo Juvarra, whose refined taste is reflected in some of the palace's more graceful and elegant aspects. Together with 13 other residences, the Royal Palace is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site by virtue of its place in the history of the House of Savoy. The Chapel of the Holy Shroud and the Palazzo Chiablese are also found here.
The Palazzo Madama is located at the center of Piazza Castello, facing Via Garibaldi. It gets its name from Maria Cristina and Giovanna Battista, two royal figures who resided there. Over the centuries, it served as the residence for the Savoy family, witnessed the signing of significant treaties, and hosted the Italian Senate when Turin was the capital. Today, it hosts the Turin City Museum of Ancient Art. Its oldest segment is the Roman Porta Pretoria, while the rear part dates back to a 13th-century castle, evident in the two towers at each corner. The baroque facade, constructed in the seventeenth century by architect Filippo Juvarra, stands out. Juvarra is also credited with designing the impressive internal staircase, showcasing the Piedmontese baroque style.
Turin Cathedral, also known as the Duomo, was built under the direction of Cardinal Domenico Della Rovere. Designed by Bartolomeo del Caprino da Settignano based on plans by Baccio Pontelli, the cathedral showcases Renaissance and Baroque architectural styles. Featuring a Latin cross layout with three aisles, the facade is constructed from white Carrara marble. The entrance boasts three wood-sculpted doors designed by Cerutti and carved by C.M. Ugliengo. Perhaps its biggest attraction is the Shroud of Turin (Sindone), a religious relic believed by some to be the burial cloth of Jesus Christ.
The Basilica of Our Lady Help of Christians was built in the 19th century and completed by 1868 by the will of Don Giovanni Bosco, whose remains lie in one of the chapels. Created by Antonio Spezia, the church is cross-shaped and has been an important gathering place for the Silesians of Don Bosco. With a Neoclassical style of architecture, the church is a sight to behold and hallmarks intricate decorations, beautiful designs, stained frescoes, glass windows, and sculptures. Conducting religious services regularly, the church is a must-visit when in Turin for being a place of worship with historical and cultural significance.
The castle; which currently houses the Museum of Contemporary Art, was one of the most important residences of the court of Savoy from the 16th century. The first building work was undertaken in 1562 after Francesco Paciotto was commissioned by Emanuele Filiberto. Construction was continued by Ascanio Vitozzi and later completed by Charles and Amedeo di Castellamonte. After damage caused in 1693 by the French, work was taken up again, first by Michelangelo Garove (who proposed doubling the size of the building), then by Filippo Juvarra but the project was not completed. Castello di Rivoli is among the most popular landmarks and attractions today.
Racconigi is a historic town that went by the name of “Raconese” in 1034 CE. It was governed by the Marquis of Saluzzo and was well known for its organzine silk. The city has many monuments steeped in history like the Royal Castle which was the summer palace of the Italian king in 1901. San Giovanni Battista and Santa Maria Maggiore are important Baroque churches. Bird-lovers will definitely enjoy a visit to the Italian League for the Protection of Birds which protects and breeds many species of endangered birds.
Church of San Lorenzo was built by the will of Emanuele Filiberto, who had promised to build a church in a vow made before the battle of San Quintino, won by the king, which took place on the August 10th, 1557, the day which is dedicated to San Lorenzo. The church was built according to a plan by Guarino Guarini between 1667 and 1680. It is a perfect expression of 17th-century baroque style both in the design of its dome and in the interior decorations.
The Basilica of Our Lady Help of Christians was built in the 19th century and completed by 1868 by the will of Don Giovanni Bosco, whose remains lie in one of the chapels. Created by Antonio Spezia, the church is cross-shaped and has been an important gathering place for the Silesians of Don Bosco. With a Neoclassical style of architecture, the church is a sight to behold and hallmarks intricate decorations, beautiful designs, stained frescoes, glass windows, and sculptures. Conducting religious services regularly, the church is a must-visit when in Turin for being a place of worship with historical and cultural significance.
Residences of the Royal House of Savoy give a glimpse into the Savoy dynasty and are a group of structures built by eminent architects and artists of that time. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These include Palazzo Reale (Royal Palace), Palazzo Madama (Museo Civico d'Arte Antica), Palazzo Carignano (Museum of the Risorgimento), Castello del Valentino, Palazzo Chiablese, Biblioteca Reale, Regia Zecca, Facciata del Teatro Regio and Villa della Regina.
The castle; which currently houses the Museum of Contemporary Art, was one of the most important residences of the court of Savoy from the 16th century. The first building work was undertaken in 1562 after Francesco Paciotto was commissioned by Emanuele Filiberto. Construction was continued by Ascanio Vitozzi and later completed by Charles and Amedeo di Castellamonte. After damage caused in 1693 by the French, work was taken up again, first by Michelangelo Garove (who proposed doubling the size of the building), then by Filippo Juvarra but the project was not completed. Castello di Rivoli is among the most popular landmarks and attractions today.
Basilica of Corpus Domini is a 17th-century church designed by Vittozzi which was built in the place where, in 1453, a miracle occurred. The church was built for the people after a vote taken during the plague in 1598. Inside, the place where the miracle happened is visible; the area is, however, enclosed and there is no access to it. There is a painting by Caravoglia illustrating the episode next to the site. The right altar was made by Juvarra, while the pulpit is by Perucca. On the walls, which are painted by Meyer, are frescoes of Vacca and and of S. Guiseppe in transit by Donnini.