Discover the best-kept secrets of Turin, Italy. From the Royal Residences to the Egyptian Museum, uncover the city's rich culture and history away from the tourist crowds.
Turin, the capital of the Piedmont region in northern Italy, is a hidden gem for travelers who want to experience the rich culture, history, and cuisine of Italy away from the typical tourist crowds. Turin is a city that is often overlooked by travelers who head straight to Rome, Florence, and Venice, but it is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore Italy’s hidden treasures.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the sights and little-known places that make Turin a unique destination for travelers.
The Royal Residences of Turin
The Royal Residences of Turin are a group of palaces and castles that were once the residences of the House of Savoy, the ruling family of the Kingdom of Sardinia. These residences, which include the Royal Palace of Turin, the Palazzina di Stupinigi, the Palazzina di caccia di Stupinigi, and the Castello di Racconigi, are some of the most beautiful and well-preserved examples of Baroque architecture in Italy.
One of the highlights of the Royal Residences of Turin is the Royal Palace of Turin, which was the official residence of the House of Savoy until the Italian monarchy was abolished in 1946. The palace is now a museum that showcases the art, history, and culture of the House of Savoy.
The Mole Antonelliana
The Mole Antonelliana is one of the most iconic landmarks in Turin. This tower, which was originally built as a synagogue in the late 19th century, now houses the National Museum of Cinema. Visitors can take a glass elevator to the top of the tower, where they can enjoy breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding mountains.
The Egyptian Museum
The Egyptian Museum of Turin is one of the largest and most important museums of ancient Egyptian art and culture in the world. The museum has a collection of over 30,000 artifacts, including mummies, statues, and jewelry. One of the most famous exhibits in the museum is the Tomb of Kha, which was discovered in 1906 by Italian archaeologist Ernesto Schiaparelli.
Little-Known Places
In addition to the well-known sights, Turin has many little-known places that are worth visiting. Here are a few examples:
Basilica di Superga – This baroque basilica, located on a hill overlooking the city, was built in the 18th century as a thanksgiving offering after the House of Savoy defeated the French army in the Battle of Turin.
Piazza Carignano – This beautiful square, located in the heart of Turin, is surrounded by historic buildings, including the Palazzo Carignano, which was the birthplace of the first king of Italy, Victor Emmanuel II.
Parco del Valentino – This park, which stretches along the banks of the Po River, is a popular spot for locals to relax and enjoy the outdoors. The park features gardens, fountains, and a medieval castle.
Turin is a city that is often overlooked by travelers, but it has so much to offer. Whether you are interested in art, history, or cuisine, Turin has something for everyone. From the Royal Residences to the Mole Antonelliana to the little-known places like the Basilica di Superga, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this beautiful city. So if you are planning a trip to Italy, make sure to add Turin to your itinerary. You won’t regret it!