Royal Palace

You’re now standing in front of the Royal Palace of Turin, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In 1416, the Dukes of Savoy were living in the Château de Chambéry, but in 1562, they moved their capital across the Alps and settled in Turin. This bold move came from Emmanuel Philibert, nicknamed Iron Head. Once in Turin, they needed a residence that matched the prestige of their distinguished dynasty. In 1584, construction began on this imposing palace, blending Neoclassical and Baroque styles. The palace was expanded and redecorated over the years, notably with the frescoes of the Grand Gallery. In the late 17th century, André Le Nôtre, the architect behind the gardens of Versailles, designed the palace’s gardens in classic French style. You can visit them for free by walking through the courtyard. If you want to explore further, wander through the palace’s interior and its truly lavish rooms. When it comes to decorating, the Italians certainly don’t hold back. Inside, you'll also find several outstanding museums, including the Galleria Sabauda, a superb fine arts museum, the Museum of Archaeology and Antiquities, the Royal Armoury, the Royal Library, and the Museum of Modern Art.