Royal Palace of Turin

Cultural Turin: Palaces, Museums and Centuries of Piedmontese History

Turin is one of Europe's most underrated cultural capitals, a city where every corner hides centuries of history from the Roman Empire to Italian unification. Capital of the Duchy of Savoy and the first capital of unified Italy in 1861, this Piedmontese city witnessed the most decisive moments in Italian history. ### An incomparable royal legacy The Savoy dynasty left Turin an architectural heritage rivalling the great European capitals. The Palazzo Reale, official royal residence for over three centuries, is just the gateway to a UNESCO World Heritage system of residences. From state rooms to royal gardens, every space conveys the power and sophistication of a court that dominated northern Italy. ### World-class museums The Museo Egizio, second in importance only to Cairo's, houses over 40,000 pieces documenting European fascination with ancient Egypt. The Mole Antonelliana, the city's most iconic building, contains the National Cinema Museum. And Palazzo Madama offers an art journey from the Middle Ages through the Baroque. ### The religious and spiritual imprint The Duomo di San Giovanni Battista guards one of Christianity's most enigmatic relics: the Holy Shroud. This linen cloth, said to have wrapped Christ's body, draws millions of pilgrims and curious visitors alike.