Mole Antonelliana
Piemonte
The Mole Antonelliana, located in Turin, Italy, is a monumental building named after its architect Alessandro Antonelli. Construction began in 1863 and was completed in 1889, initially intended as a synagogue for the Jewish community. However, due to escalating costs and Antonelli's ambitious design changes, the project was taken over by the city and rededicated to King Victor Emmanuel II. Standing at 167.5 meters, it was once the tallest brick building in Europe and remains the tallest unreinforced brick building in the world. Architecturally, it features rare Catalan vaults in its ground floor ceiling and a distinctive spire topped originally by a winged genie statue, later replaced by a star. Since 2000, the Mole houses the Museo Nazionale del Cinema, reputedly the tallest museum globally. The building is a symbol of Turin, featured on the Italian 2 euro cent coin and inspiring logos for major sporting events. It also lends its name to the famous Derby della Mole football rivalry between Torino and Juventus. Its unique blend of historical significance, architectural innovation, and cultural importance makes it a must-see landmark in Italy.
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Tip: For the best experience, visit during weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy panoramic city views from the observation deck. Tickets for the National Museum of Cinema are recommended to be purchased in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. Discounts are often available for students, seniors, and groups. The Mole is accessible via public transport and offers informative guided tours to enhance visitor understanding of its history and architecture.
Interesting facts
- •The Mole Antonelliana was the tallest brick building in Europe until 1908.
- •It is the tallest unreinforced brick building in the world, built without a steel skeleton.
- •The winged genie statue originally atop the spire collapsed during a storm in 1904 and was replaced by a large copper star.
- •The building features rare Catalan vaults in its ceiling, uncommon in Italy but popular in Spain.
- •The Mole is depicted on the Italian 2 euro cent coin and inspired the emblem of the 2006 Winter Olympics in Turin.
- •It lent its name to the Derby della Mole, a famous football rivalry between Torino and Juventus.
History
Construction of the Mole Antonelliana began in 1863 when Turin was the capital of the newly unified Italy.
Originally designed as a synagogue, its height was repeatedly increased by architect Alessandro Antonelli, leading to escalating costs and delays.
In 1876, the Jewish community withdrew from the project, and the city of Turin took over, dedicating the building to King Victor Emmanuel II.
Antonelli continued working on it until his death in 1888.
The building was completed in 1889, becoming the tallest brick building in Europe.
Over the 20th century, it housed various museums and underwent structural reinforcements.
Since 2000, it has been home to the National Museum of Cinema.
Place Guide
Observation Deck
Located near the top of the spire, this panoramic terrace offers 360-degree views of Turin and the surrounding Alps, providing a unique perspective of the city’s skyline.
National Museum of Cinema2000
Housed within the Mole since 2000, this museum showcases the history of cinema through extensive exhibits including vintage film equipment, posters, and interactive displays.
The Spire and Star1889
The spire reaches 167.5 meters and was originally topped by a winged genie statue symbolizing the House of Savoy. After the statue collapsed in 1904, it was replaced by a copper star, which has since been modified.
Catalan Vaults
The ground floor ceiling under the atrium features Catalan vaults, a construction technique rare in Italy but common in Spain, adding unique architectural value to the building.
Contact
Phone: 011 813 8564
