Royal Palace of Turin
Piemonte
The Royal Palace of Turin, originally constructed in the 16th century, served as the principal residence of the House of Savoy and a center of political power in Piemonte for over three centuries. It was built on the site of the former Bishop's Palace and extensively expanded and modernized in the 17th century under Christine Marie of France, with significant architectural contributions by Filippo Juvarra. The palace complex includes the Palazzo Chiablese and the renowned Chapel of the Holy Shroud, built to house the Shroud of Turin. The interiors are richly decorated with allegorical paintings by artists such as Daniel Seiter and Bartolomeo Caravoglia, while the grand staircase and state apartments feature exquisite Baroque and Neoclassical elements. The palace became a museum in 1946 and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site encompassing the residences of the House of Savoy. It remains a cultural landmark in Turin, offering visitors a glimpse into royal life, art, and history, complemented by its gardens designed by André Le Nôtre and other notable architects.
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Astuce: The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is pleasant for exploring the palace and its gardens. It is recommended to purchase tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to avoid long queues. Visitors can benefit from combined tickets that include access to the Royal Armoury, Chapel of the Holy Shroud, and the Galleria Sabauda. The palace offers guided tours that enrich the experience by providing detailed historical context. Accessibility services are available, and checking the official website for current opening hours and special exhibitions is advised.
Faits intéressants
- •The Chapel of the Holy Shroud was specifically constructed between 1668 and 1694 to house the Shroud of Turin, one of Christianity's most revered relics.
- •The palace was originally the Bishop's Palace before becoming the royal residence of the House of Savoy.
- •Filippo Juvarra, a renowned Baroque architect, designed the notable 'Scalone delle Forbici' (Scissors Staircase) within the palace.
- •The palace is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site that includes 13 other residences of the House of Savoy.
- •The Royal Armoury within the palace houses one of the most spectacular collections of arms and armor in the world.
Histoire
The Royal Palace of Turin originated from the Bishop's Palace, which was chosen by Emmanuel Philibert, Duke of Savoy, in the 16th century as his residence.
The palace was significantly expanded and transformed in the 17th century under Christine Marie of France, who commissioned architects like Ascanio Vitozzi and Amedeo di Castellamonte.
In the late 17th and early 18th centuries, Filippo Juvarra contributed to its Baroque grandeur, including the Chapel of the Holy Shroud built between 1668 and 1694.
The palace was the seat of the Dukes and later Kings of Savoy, witnessing political and dynastic events until the capital moved to Florence and then Rome in the 19th century.
After Italy became a republic in 1946, the palace was converted into a museum and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997.
Guide du lieu
State Apartments17th century
Lavishly decorated rooms on the piano nobile featuring allegorical ceiling paintings by artists such as Jan Miel and Charles Dauphin, celebrating the virtues and power of the Savoy dynasty.
Chapel of the Holy Shroud1668–1694
A masterpiece of Baroque architecture designed by Guarino Guarini to house the Shroud of Turin, featuring an innovative elliptical dome and rich interior decoration.
Daniel Gallery (Galleria del Daniel)Early 18th century
A grand gallery decorated with lavish murals by Daniel Seiter, commissioned during the reign of Victor Amadeus II to celebrate the House of Savoy's prestige.
Scalone d’Onore (Grand Staircase)1862
An impressive ceremonial staircase designed in the 19th century by Domenico Ferri, featuring a painted vault by Paolo Emilio Morgari depicting the apotheosis of King Charles Albert and Duke Emmanuel Philibert.
Royal Gardens (Giardini Reali)Late 17th century
Historic gardens originally designed by André Le Nôtre in the late 17th century, featuring fountains, statues, and elegant pathways that complement the palace's grandeur.
Contact
Téléphone: 011 521 1106
