Turin is a modern and diverse city from the so-called historical cities of Italy. The beauty of the city is due to its active lifestyle. Business, modernization and prosperity are testaments to the uniqueness of the city of Turin.
We notice a rich touch of history in every city in Italy. The luxury of every city is very ancient and wonderful. But in that respect Turin is our heterogeneous example. Although the historical aspects of the city are not like other cities, it is much ahead in prosperity. So tourists must come to Turin to see an organized economic self-sustainable city in Italy.
Today we will try to highlight Turin, one of the largest and most modern cities in Italy, along with the places to visit and what steps and precautions should be taken by tourists there.
Table of Contents
All About Turin
Turin is one of the important business and cultural lands in Northern Italy. It is the capital of piedmont and a large city of the Metropolitan region.
It was the first capital of Italy from 1861 to 1865. This city is mainly located on the western bank of the Po River. The total area of this city is about 130.17 square kilometres and the total population is about 843,514.
This city was historically a major European political centre. In 1563, it was the capital of the Duchy of Savoy. In that time this place was one of the strongest economic points of Italy. Then Turin became a major European crossroad for Industry, Commerce and trade. Now it is a part of an industrial triangle along with Milan and Genoa.
Sometimes this city is called “the cradle of Italian Liberty”. The reason behind this complement, for having been the political and intellectual centre of the Risorgimento that led to the unification of Italy.
For the huge economic strength, it became the third strongest city beside this; this city is the world’s 78th richest city by purchasing power. In 2018, it became a gamma level global city means a real modern city in the modern world. It is also the home of the automotive Industry since long ago.
Turin has a unique rich culture and history. It houses numerous art galleries, restaurants, churches, palaces, opera houses, piazzas, parks, gardens, Theatres. So all the facilities are available here properly.
The city is well-known for its Baroque, Rococo, Neoclassical and Nouveau style of architecture. For these unique structural works, its many famous architectural buildings and places ranked at the world’s top 250 tourist destinations.
Turin hosts some best Universities who are top in the whole Italy cities. Then it is famous for icons like the shroud of Turin, the gianduja, automobile brand Fiat and also a Famous football club Juventus who are the most successful football team in SERIE-A.
Top 10 places in Turin
1. Mole Antonelliana
This place is one of the landmarks of Turin. It houses a national cinema museum, a unique place for the ancient play lovers.
Its construction started in 1863 and was completed in 1889. Then it became damaged by environmental problems. Then after a long time it was renovated in 1953. Its total height is about 167.5 meters.
It is one of the tallest museums in the world and also a very famous architecture of all time. The main architect was Alessandro Antonelli. This building is a building of monumental proportions. Every year a great number of people come here to explore this.
2. Egyptian Museum (Museo Egizio)
This is an archaeological museum. This Museum houses one of the largest collections of Egyptian antiquities, with more than 30,000 artefacts.Here tourists can learn about ancient artefacts including some notable Egyptian artefacts.
It is considered the second most important Egyptological collection in the world, after the Egyptian museum of Cairo.
3. Royal palace.
This is a historical palace of the house of savoy. This palace is very attractive for tourists. For its unique architectural work, tourists are really surprised to explore this.
Originally it was built in the 16th century and was later modernized by Cristine Marie of France (1606-1663) in the 17th century. It was designed by architect Filippo Juvarra.
In 1946, this palace was turned into a museum and now it became a famous museum of the middle ages. In 1997, it was placed on UNESCO world heritage site list.
4. Piazza Caslello
This grand square is the heart of Turin, designed with historic buildings. It houses several city landmarks, museums, theatres and cafes.
This square is rectangular in shape and houses at its centre the architectural complex of Palazzo Madama. It is located 239 meters above sea level, a very well organised place to visit.
5. Palazzo Madama.
This was the first senate of the Kingdom of Italy. It takes its traditional name from the embellishments. It was received under two queens of the house of savoy.
This building houses the Museum of ancient art. It has a large collection of paintings, statues, church, ornaments, porcelain, decorative art etc. Most of the elements are collected from the late middle ages of the 18th century.
Tourists can have a close look at various historical and practical artefacts of the late medieval period and gain knowledge about the lifestyle of that era.
6. Piazza San Carlo
This is one of the main city squares in Turin. Previously it was known as Piazza Reale, Piazza d’Armi and Palace Napoleon.
It was laid out in the 16th and 17th century and is a great example of Baroque style. Here this style was properly followed by the great architect. Visitors will be surprised to see the visualization of this square.
7. Basilica di Superga
This is a hilltop Catholic basilica in a Superga. It was a burial place for the savoy family. This building offers panoramic views of Turin city. Visitors can feel the fresh sweet breeze of nature.
The constitution work was started in 1717 and was completed in 1731. The structure style was late baroque, neoclassical. The architect was Filippo Juvarra.
Tourists can explore the place with an amazing natural view. The whole structure of this place is really organised. Many historical incidents happen that are related to this place.
8. Parco Del Valen
This is a popular public park located along the west bank of the Po River. This park is an interesting and historical place for the tourists.
It covers an area of 500,000 meters square. This is Turin’s second largest park. It was nominated as “The Best Italian park”.
It was opened by the city of Turin in 1856 and was Italy’s first public garden. Visitors can walk along the walkway and enjoy the unique fresh moments of Turin.
9. National cinema Museum
This is a motion picture Museum located inside the Antenolliana Tower. This is operated by the Maria Adriana Prolo Foundation.
The core of its collection is the result of the work of historian and collector, Maria Adriana Prolo. It is housed in the Palazzo Chianblese. It was established in 1958 and now it reached the top 13th best tourist place of Italy.
10. Juventus Museum
This is a must watch place for football fans. It showcases the history of Juventus, one of Italy’s most successful football clubs. Generally, this museum is called J-Museum.
This sports Museum is dedicated to the Juventus team’s history of glory. This museum is part of a complex, surrounding Juventus Stadium.
It opened in 2012, a special contribution to 115 years of club history. The history of Juventus, football in Turin, the national football team, through the use of modern technologies, a collection of memorabilia, photos, Institutional documents and football equilibrium.
Tips from Our Guide
1. The best time to visit Turin is spring (April-May) or autumn (September-October) when the weather adds a unique beauty. At that time Turin blended its entire city into nature in a different way. So tourists can enjoy Turin differently.
2. Turin is a city to visit on foot. All major attractions are close by. So you will get the best experience by walking around. You can buy the Turin Card if you want which will give you easy access to public transport and museums and get discounts.
3. You may try some of Turin’s local specialities, such as Gianduiotti (Chocolate and hazelnut praliness), Bicerin (a hot coffee drink), Agnolotti (pasta filled with meat or vegetables).
Conclusion
Turin, the fourth largest city, has its own royal history, rich culture and vibrant food sense. In all respects the city is one of the favourite places for tourists. You can enjoy the beauty of the city in every corner.
Today’s blog covers all the sights of this beautiful city, the glorious places to visit and its current economic and geographical situation. At the end some general instructions are given which will make the journey of the main period more beautiful with some prior experience of the tourists.
