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Home , Caravino, Caselle Torinese, Castello del Valentino, Exilles, Fenestrelle, Ivrea

In & around Torino Palaces, Castles and Forts 2008 /2009

A land of dames and knights. www.turismotorino.org Torino Piazza Castello/via Garibaldi Stazione ferroviaria di Porta Nuova Aeroporto internazionale di Caselle ph. +39.011.535181 [email protected]

Avigliana Piazza del Popolo 2 Viale Giolitti 7/9 Cell. +39.334.6034334 ph. +39.0121.795589 info.@turismotorino.org [email protected]

Bardonecchia Piazza De Gasperi 1 Piazza Lantelme ph. +39.0122.99032 ph. +39.0122.741728 info.@turismotorino.org [email protected]

Cesana Torinese Sauze d’Oulx Piazza Vittorio Amedeo 3 Viale Genevris 7 ph. +39.0122.89202 ph. +39.0122.858009 [email protected] [email protected]

Clavière Via Nazionale 30 Via Louset ph. +39.0122.878856 ph. +39.0122.755444 info.@turismotorino.org [email protected]

Fenestrelle Susa Piazza della Fiera 1 Corso Inghilterra 39 ph. +39.0121.83617 ph. +39.0122.622447 info.@turismotorino.org [email protected] *(closed on Wednesday) Via Repubblica 3 Corso 1 ph. +39.0121.91875 ph. +39.0125.618131 [email protected] [email protected] Via Andrea Mensa 34 Via Umberto I 9 ph. +39.011.4992326 ph. +39.0123.28080 [email protected] [email protected] *(closed on the same days as the Palace) How to read the guide.

Royal Residences

Ë Accessible

Snack point

Bookshop

Guided tours

For groups only

 Hours

Closing day

E Admittance Fee

E Free

Opening hours may vary: for updated information call the toll free number 800 329 329 (00 800 111 333 00 from abroad) every day from 8.00 am to 10.00 pm. References

A4

Motorways Highways

Regional throughroutes, other roads

232 E 70 Number of national and European roads

Railways with stations and tunnels

Colle del Monginevro 1854 Gap, height in metres 6 State frontiers, regional and provincial boundaries

8 Natural parks and reservation area

13 International airport 5 Sandro Pertini of Torino Caselle 11 3 7

9 2

16 19 1

18 15 14

20 12 17

4 To reach Torino da Milano: 140 km da Genève: 247 km da Genova: 170 km da Lyon: 314 km da Venezia: 400 km da Paris: 780 km da Firenze: 395 km da Barcelona: 877 km da Bologna: 330 km da München: 613 km da Roma: 675 km da Wien: 1024 km 10 da Napoli: 885 km da Amsterdam:1159 km

To move throughout the territory from Torino Avigliana: 28 km : 79 km Bardonecchia: 92 km Pinerolo: 41 km : 16 km Pragelato: 111 km : 89 km Sauze d’Oulx: 87 km Claviere: 95 km Sestriere: 100 km Fenestrelle: 74 km Susa: 56 km Scale Ivrea: 52 km Torre Pellice: 54 km 0 5 10 15 km 20 Lanzo Torinese: 34 km Venaria Reale: 15 km In & around Torino Palaces, Castles and Forts These possessions – central in the city landscape, but also spread out all over the surrounding areas – used to The imposing ramparts provide be exclusive recreational locations for important proof of a historical hunting and holidays. Perfectly kept, stratification of military architecture they tell of centuries of warrior dukes which goes from the early and beauty-loving kings, of refined to the Second World War and boast very dames who loved ballet and theatre, skilled architectural work, both from a of princely ceremonies and parties, structural and from a purely aesthetic of labyrinths and fountains about point of view. which tales were told all over Europe. The pages of this small guide present the A court capable of keeping itself most enchanting palaces, castles and amused, but also of protecting itself, fortresses in the area, brought to life in to such an extent that the soil of the every season of the year by performances, Western , which was for a long events and exhibitions. For you to time the object of an intense activity start travelling with your imagination, of fortification aimed at blocking the planning your visit through time amidst passage of the armies through the heroism and nobility. Once upon a time there was a valleys, reveals a military presence marvellous territory dotted with Here every frieze speaks of art and without equals in the alpine area. magnificent palaces, enchanting every tower documents a past which castles, imposing fortresses… and is rich in history: visiting these it still exists: in & around Torino, precious castles, one relives heroic immersed in the beautiful setting of deeds, political events and legends the Savoy province. Dominating the in a journey across time and space, hills, the plain or the mountains, from the rigour of the Middle Ages to isolated within the greenery of the magnificence of the Savoys. parks and gardens, or wrapped in The old dynasty, who reigned over the warmth of their villages, castles for almost a thousand are among the most exciting pages years, has left us with possessions to read the book of these beautiful of inestimable value: among these places and interpret their spirit. the Royal Residences shine in all their splendour. They are an inheritance of extraordinary cultural and environmental interest, declared “World Heritage” by UNESCO in 1997.

2 3 Appartamenti realiReali Castello Biandratebiandrate di Borgo Castellocastello di

Borgo Castello is located in the Foglizzo is one of the oldest small from his marriage with Isabella vast La Mandria Regional Park: it is “Bela Rosin” – who was never much villages in the area del Monferrato. In 1631, with the a historical as well as naturalistic appreciated by the government and Via Curis, which led to Cherasco treaty, it became part of estate and its peculiarity lies in the and the court. A privat atmosphere (present-day ), used to go Vittorio Amedeo I’s Savoy territory. fact that it is the largest planitial dominates: in order to keep through here. According to tradition In 1885 a royal decree authorized wood in the Pianura Padana, “intruders” away, long “boundary San Carlo Borromeo himself stayed the town to purchase the Castle, inhabited by much game. The rooms walls” were erected and are, to this in Foglizzo when he travelled to located in a beautiful elevated of the apartment on the first floor day, the clear sign of the presence Torino to worship the Holy Shroud. position, where the town hall now – more intimate and ordinary than of the estate. The king’s house was From the 12th century it belonged is. The family became the official residences, but richly a faithful reflection of his open, free to the counts of Biandrate thanks extinct in 1958, when the last furnished according to bourgeois and self-assured personality. to Guido the Great, commanding taste of the time – hosted Vittorio officer of Federico Barabarossa’s countess Maria Luisa died in Torino. Emanuele II from August 17, 1859 troupes, who received it as a dowry with his two sons and his morganatic Appartamenti Reali di Borgo Castello Castello Biandrate di Foglizzo wife Rosa Vercellana – known as Viale Carlo Emanuele II 256 Via Castello 6 - Foglizzo La Mandria Regional Park - Venaria Reale ph. +39 011 9883404 ph. +39 011 4993381 segretario@.foglizzo.to.it Ë [email protected] www.comune.foglizzo.to.it www.parcomandria.it How to get there: How to get there: A5 Torino-, A55 Torino beltway, exit Venaria exit San Giorgio C.se or ; A4 Milano-Torino, exit

Mar-Oct, Mon-Sun: 10.30 am-3.30 pm; Apr-Sept, Mon-Sun: 10.30 am-5.30 pm;  reservation required

Wednesday and Thursday

E  Upon reservation

E Abbonamento Musei E

4 5 Castello Biandrate Castello Cavour di San Giorgio di

Both the village and the castle once Santena – a town renowned for its belonged to the powerful Biandrate However, the most important production of much appreciated is in no way military, but was one of family from : in fact it seems transformations took place in 1726, asparagus – is known especially for those projects aimed at providing the that the village was named after on the occasion of the marriage having been the home town of the pure pleasure of comfort. these counts who had the image of between the “marchese” Ferdinando noble Benso family. This is where The bedroom with furniture and San Giorgio on their coat of arms. di San Giorgio and the “marchesa” Castello Cavour can be found, a work relics from the Torino palace, where Up until the 20th century the castle Vilcardel de Fleury. From the broad by the architect Francesco Gallo, Camillo Benso died on June 6, 1861, complex was made up of two buidings: central ballroom, with its square plan by order of the count Carlo Ottavio is on the second floor. The Benso Castel Vecchio, from the 12th century of 12 metres per side, one reaches the Benso di Cavour and built between di Cavour family’s funerary chapel is and Castel Nuovo, built between the rooms that make up four apartments. 1712 and 1720 on the ruins of an in the park. This is where the great 13th and 14th centuries. The former old castle. The building, which was statesman – one of the main authors was almost completely demolished in renovated in the 19th century by of the unification of – was the 19th century and replaced by an Giuseppina, Camillo’s favourite niece, Castello Biandrate di San Giorgio buried two days after his death. English-style garden; the latter, which Via Biandrate - is now the big seigneurial residence, ph. +39 0124 450738 took on its current appearance in the [email protected] Castello Cavour di Santena 18th century. www.castellosangiorgio.it Piazza Visconti Venosta 2 - Santena How to get there: ph. +39 011 9492578 A5 Torino-Aosta, exit San Giorgio C.se; [email protected] A4 Milano-Torino, exit Chivasso or Ë www.fondazionecavour.it A4-A5 link, exit San Giorgio C.se How to get there: A21 Torino-Piacenza, exit Santena Ë

May-Oct, Sun: 10.00 am-12.30 pm and 3.00 pm-7.00 pm;  on weekdays upon reservation for groups and schools

Monday and holidays

 Sunday and holidays upon reservation E

E E Kids under age 6, Abbonamento Musei 6 Castello Ducale di Aglié Castello di Ivrea

We are in the heart of the Canavese Amedeo VI di Savoia – known as area, the old territory – between Conte Verde (Green Count) because was, bringing about an explosion Torino and the Valle d’Aosta – where In 1763 Carlo Emanuele III purchased he had a predilection for this which caused deaths, destruction Arduino ( between 997 it to increase the appanage of his colour, which was recommended by and irreparable damage to the and 1002, commemorated in the younger son Benedetto Maurizio, duke the doctors of the time for curing tower itself, which has since been decoration of the reception hall of of the Chiablese area. Towards the sore eyes – had the castle built in severed. From the 18th century the castle) fought and died. But the middle of the 19th century the castle 1358. It especially had a defensive to 1970 the building was used as central character in the history of the was passed on to the duke of purpose, but very often also gave a prison: recent restoration work castle is Filippo San Martino d’Aglié – Ferdinando – Carlo Alberto’s second hospitality to the Savoy family: for demolished the factory buildings an intelligent and sly courtier, artist, son – and his descendants lived there example on June 13, 1648 it was which had since been added and political counsellor and the lover of until 1939, when they passed it on to here that the first Royal Madam made it possible to visit the the first Royal Madam Maria Cristina the State. Maria Cristina of France had her courtyard and some of the rooms. of France – who entrusted the works fourteen-year-old son Emanuele II of transformation of the castle to the proclaimed ruling duke. major architect of his time: Amedeo Castello Ducale di Aglié In 1676 lightning fell on the main Castello di Ivrea di . Piazza Castello - Aglié tower where the powder magazine Piazza Castello - Ivrea ph. +39 0124 330102 ph. +39 0125 44415 www.ilcastellodiaglie.it [email protected] How to get there: www.comune.ivrea.to.it Ë A5 Torino-Aosta, exit San Giorgio C.se; How to get there: A4 Milano-Torino, A4-A5 link, A5 Torino-Aosta, exit Ivrea; exit San Giorgio C.se A4 Milano-Torino, A4-A5 link, Ë Partly exit Ivrea

May 1-Oct 15, Sun: 10.00 am-12.00 pm and 3.00 pm-6.30 pm;  Tue-Sun: 8.30 am-6.30 pm  all year long upon reservation for groups and schools

Monday October 16-April 30, June 2 and August 15 E E

Under age 18, over 65, E Abbonamento Musei E Schools 8 9 Castello Malgrà di Rivarolo Castello di Masino

According to legend the name The earliest information we have “Malgrà” is due to the fact that the The medieval structure, concealed about Masino castle is from 1070, it was in these years that the castle was built “despite” (in Italian by work done on it in the 18th when it was purchased by Pietro di ashes of King Arduino arrived in “malgrado”) the opposition of the century, was brought to light during Masino and became a part of the Masino, from the castle of Aglié. Valpergas, the antagonists of the the restoration work of the end of largest feud in the Canavese area In 1988 FAI (Italian Foundation San Martinos. In fact the castle was the 19th century and the beginning belonging to the counts. for the Environment) purchased built by Martino di San Martino, lord of the 20th century. The architect The family became related to the residence, making the original of Rivarolo and Aglié, and therefore D’Andrade drew inspiration from the Savoys thanks to count Carlo furniture and decorations of the was often at the centre of clashes the entrance to Malgrà Castle when Francesco I, who had an apartment castle – that exalt the genealogy of between the two families. In 1532 he designed the drawbridge of made inside the castle for his the family and of the most important the people from Rivarolo, exasperated Valentino Castle in Torino. mistress, the second Royal Madam aristocracies of the time – visible by the abuses of power carried out Maria Giovanna Battista, mother again. The 12 carriages which by the San Martinos, turned to Carlo of Vittorio Amedeo II. But it was belonged to the Valperga family were III duke of Savoy, who conquered the Castello Malgrà di Rivarolo especially in the 18th century placed in the 18th century stables. castle, killing all its occupants. Only Via Maurizio Farina 57 - that the castle took on its current those who had taken refuge in the ph. +39 0124 26725 - +39 333 1301516 appearance: according to tradition tower were able to escape, for they [email protected] Castello di Masino managed to run away through the www.amicicastellomalgra.it Via al Castello 1 - , vaults that led to the Orco river. How to get there: frazione Masino A5 Torino-Aosta, exit San Giorgio C.se; ph. +39 0125 778100 A4 Milano-Torino, A4-A5 link, [email protected] Ë exit San Giorgio C.se www.fondoambiente.it Partly How to get there: A5 Torino-Aosta, exit ; A4 Milano-Torino, A4-A5 link, exit Albiano d’Ivrea  Tue-Sun: 10.00 am-6.00 pm

May-mid Oct, Sun: 3.00 pm-7.00 pm;  all year long upon reservation for groups and schools Monday (except holidays) and mid December-January

Weekdays and mid October-mid April E

E E FAI members, Abbonamento Musei

10 11 Castello di Mazzé Castello di

In actual fact there are two The undulations in the ground buildings: the big castle (both floors General Staff, decided to flood the around Pralormo announce the hills various activities and events there. of which can be visited) and the plane of the Vercelli area with the of the bordering regions of To counter the disappearance of the little one (home to the Museo della water from the Sesia to counter the and Monferrato. The original nucleus tradition of Piedmontese embroidery Tortura – Torture Museum – created Austrian advance. And there is also a of the castle is from the end of the – known as “bandera” – new in collaboration with Amnesty ghost… It’s the 14th century count 13th century and it was part of the embroiderers are featured in this area International). The Valperga di Mazzé Raffaele Hugoniot, who was killed in fortifications of this area – debated of Piemonte, where they used to be family remained in possession of the the armoury of the castle for having between the Biandrates and the city made back in the 18th century. castle until 1840 when the lineage dishonoured – by cheating her with a of Asti. In 1830, with the unification In the month of April, during “Messer became extinct with the death of the false wedding – the daughter of his of the feud by Carlo Beraudo, the Tulipano”, over 75,000 flowers bring count Carlo Francesco. The current fencing master, Grazia. court architect Ernesto Melano lively colours to the English-style aspect of the castle – given to it changed the original fortified complex park in the castle. by the architect Giuseppe Velati into an elegant seigneurial residence. Bellini, who transformed the old The building is still the residence of Castello di Mazzé buildings – is from 1850. Here, in the Beraudo family who organizes Via Castello - Mazzé Castello di Pralormo 1859, Vittorio Emanuele II, with ph. +39 011 9835250 Strada Statale 29 - Pralormo III’s Italian and French [email protected] ph. +39 011 884870 www.castellodimazze.it [email protected] How to get there: www.contessapralormo.com A5 Torino-Aosta, exit San Giorgio C.se; Ë Park How to get there: A4 Milano-Torino, exit A21 Torino-Piacenza, Villanova d’Asti exit, SR29 to Pralormo

For groups Sunday (except August) Everyday during the exhibition; Feb-Nov, only on holidays: 2.00 pm-6.00 pm; May-July and Sept-Oct, Sun and holidays: 10.00 am-1.00 pm and 2.00 pm-6.00 pm;  all year long upon reservation for groups and schools  reservation required for groups (min party of 15)

Saturday, weekdays and December-January Monday, August and November-March E E

E Kids under age 5 E Kids under age 4

12 13 Castello di Castello di Rivoli

The complex is made up of two The castle is located in a strategic medieval buildings: the “Castello The most significant restoration works position on the morainic hill at the It was Vittorio Amedeo II who had Superiore”, built by the counts of were by Alfredo d’Andrade in 1871, mouth of the Valle di Susa and is the castle built: the royal architect Valperga and facing the mountain, when the complex was purchased by at the bottom of the 11 km-long worked here, following and the “Castello Inferiore”, built by Carlo Ogliani, the brother-in-law of straight avenue (currently Corso an original and grand drawing which the Discalzi counts and facing the the painter Carlo Pittara, one of the Francia), which was planned in 1711 was only partially carried out. Since plane. With the extinction of the founders of the so-called Scuola di with the name “Strada Reale di 1984, the Museum of Contemporary Discalzi family, they both became Rivara, who anticipated, in certain Torino” (Royal Street of Torino). Art has been here in the old rooms. property of the Valpergas. In the respects, the movement of the French It was for many centuries the It creates an unusual blend of past 15th century the “Castello Superiore” impressionists. To this day the outpost of the Savoys in Piemonte and present, thanks also to the became a centre of the Inquisition castle hosts an important Centre of and was chosen by Emanuele Filiberto avant-garde structures and materials and this is where trials against Contemporary Art. as his favourite residence. He brought used in the recent restoration works. witches were held: only one of them, about the first substantial changes Margarota, managed to save herself and his only son, Carlo Emanuele I, was born here. from the stake by telling of the Castello di Rivara Castello di Rivoli punishments that the condemned had Piazza Sillano 2 - Rivara Piazza Mafalda di Savoia - Rivoli to undergo. ph. +39 0124 31122 ph. +39 011 9565220 [email protected] Ë [email protected] www.castellodirivara.it www.castellodirivoli.it How to get there: How to get there: A5 Torino-Aosta, exit San Giorgio C.se; A32 Torino-Bardonecchia, exit Rivoli Ë A4 Milano-Torino, A4-A5 link, Partly exit San Giorgio C.se

Tue-Thu: 10.00 am-5.00 pm; Fri-Sun: 10.00 am-9.00 pm;  reservation advised for groups

Sat-Sun: 10.30 am-12.30 pm and 3.00 pm-6.00 pm;  upon reservation Monday E E

E Kids under age 10, Abbonamento Musei

14 15 Castello di Valperga Palazzo Madama

The castle dominates the Valperga It is certainly one of the oldest Savoy husband, Prince Philip, appeared on built-up area: it was built around finally a neoclassical palace, residences and it hides, behind the its balcony, to greet the acclamations the 1Oth century by the lords of surrounded by a park with a terraced sumptuous Juvarran façade, two of the citizens of Torino. After a Courgné and then enlarged by the disposition, which now hosts a rest millennia of history and Turinese art. complex restoration project, the counts of Valperga, but according home. San Giorgio church was quoted It was the first defensive centre in palace hosted the Olympic Committee to tradition it was built before the in a document from 1150 as a chapel the city (the Roman Porta Pretoria), in 2006 and is now the home of the year one thousand by Dadone – the of the nearby castle. It has a series a medieval castle (which gave the very rich collection of the Municipal count of Pombia and father of the of frescoes that represent one of the whole square its name), the elegant Museum of Ancient Art, with rooms king Arduino – and the “marchese” most remarkable pre-Renaissance residence of the two Madame Reali furnished following the criterion of of Ivrea himself stayed there on various cycles in the Canavese area. (from the first of which it gets its historical reconstruction. occasions. There are three parts to name). Between 1848 and 1864 the the building: a central part with a central room became the seat of the tower, considered the most ancient subalpine – later Italian – Senate. Castello di Valperga Palazzo Madama structure; the medieval castle around During the centenary of Italian unity Via Cesare Battisti 19 - Valperga Piazza Castello - Torino it, surrounded by ramparts that run Elizabeth II of England and her ph. +39 0124 617132 ph. +39 011 4433501 along the old Belmonte road; ist.fi[email protected] [email protected] How to get there: www.palazzomadamatorino.it A5 Torino-Aosta, exit San Giorgio C.se; Ë How to get there: A4 Milano-Torino, A4-A5 link, A55 Torino beltway, exit San Giorgio C.se exit Corso Regina Margherita

taircase and Medieval Courtyard, Tue-Fri and Sun: 9.00 am-7.00 pm; Sat: 9.00 am-8.00 pm; Museum, Tue-Fri and Sun: 10.00 am-6.00 pm;  Sat: 9.00 am-8.00 pm; reservation required for groups and schools

Ë Monday

Last Sun of the month: 3.00 pm-6.00 pm;  upon reservation E Museum only

First Tuesday of the month; schools, disables, kids under age 10, E E Abbonamento Musei

16 17 Palazzo Reale Reggia di Venaria Reale

The first and most important It is located at the mouth of Savoy royal residence is in the decorations, of the change in taste the Valli di Lanzo, which can be and the gardens to respond to the heart of the city, overlooking between the 17th and 19th centuries, considered – with their peaks philosophy of absolutism dear to his piazza Castello and delimited by under the direction of the greatest reaching considerable heights – the client, Carlo Emanuele II. Vittorio the 19th century rail fence, the court architects. The ground floor is last natural rampart of the city of Amedeo II inherited from his father entrance of which is guarded by home to the Apartments known as Torino. It is a Vénerie, that is a his passion for the palace and the statues of the two Dioscuri. Madama Felicita; on the ground floor residence created for hunting: a commissioned works from Filippo The palace took on its present there are the 35 rooms of the state unique experiment in the history of Juvarra that will remain memorable: appearance by will of the first apartments, while on the second floor that “corona di delitiae” (“crown of the Main Gallery, the Sant’Uberto Madama Reale Maria Cristina di one can visit the 30 rooms used by delights”) that the Savoys wanted Chapel, the Main Stable and the Francia, who was the wife of the the kings and queens of Italy for their to celebrate their power. The novelty Citrus Greenhouse. duke Vittorio Amedeo I. Behind stays in Torino, when it was no longer lies in the vision underlying the a 107 metres-long façade, lies a the capital. work: the ducal architect wanted to unite in a three-floor palace that provides Reggia di Venaria Reale unique plan the village, the palace evidence, with furniture and Piazza della Repubblica 4 - Venaria Reale Palazzo Reale ph. +39 011 4992333 Piazzetta Reale 1 - Torino [email protected] Ë ph. +39 011 4361455 Ë www.lavenaria.it [email protected] How to get there: www.piemonte.beniculturali.it A55 Torino beltway, exit Venaria How to get there: A55 Torino beltway, exit Corso Regina Margherita

Tue-Sun: 8.30 am-7.30 pm; reservation required for groups. ue-Thu: 9.00 am-4.30 pm; Fri: 9.00 am-8.00 pm;  Please note: not all the floors are always open to public  Sat: 9.00 am-10.00 pm; Sun: 9.00 am-7.00 pm

Monday Monday (except holidays) and December 25 E E

Kids under age 12 with adult, E Under age 18, over 65, Abbonamento Musei E the person accompanying a disabled, Abbonamento Musei 18 19 Forte di Bramafam

The villa is located in a superb Bardonecchia is the westernmost setting, at the end of an avenue that it was named “Villa della Regina” town in Italy and the French border history of this fortification can now climbs from the Gran Madre church (“The Queen’s Villa” – the name by surrounds it. The presence of a castle be retraced thanks to the visiting up towards the hills. It was realized which it is still known) after her. It on the peak of Bramafam has been ring – an exhibition area spread out in 1615 by the cardinal Maurizio di was given to the Institute of Soldiers’ known since the first half of the over 36 rooms – the 146 manikins Savoia, son of Carlo Emanuele I. Daughters by Vittorio Emanuele II fourteenth century: with it with original uniforms, 14 pieces of He was ordained at the young age and suffered heavy bombings during was the only Dauphinal castle in the ordnance and over 1,800 finds of of fourteen and in 1642 his vocation the Second World War. After ten valley that had a permanent garrison. military life that compose gave way to the raison d’Etat: at years of restoration works the villa The Fort was built to watch the Frejus the museum. the end of the so-called War of the and its large park have been recently gallery, after the railway tunnel was In-Laws, he abandoned the purple reopened to the public. opened in 1871. The military post robe and married his thirteen-year- was dismantled because of the 1947 old niece Ludovica, the daughter of Paris treaty and until 1995 – the year Forte di Bramafam Località Forte di Bramafam - Bardonecchia his brother Vittorio Amedeo I and Villa della Regina in which the restoration of the fort of Cristina of France. The residence began – it was subjected to a long ph. +39 339 2227228 Strada Santa Margherita 79 - Torino [email protected] then became Anna d’Orléans (Vittorio ph. 800 329329 period of destruction. But the long Amedeo II’s wife) favourite, and www.fortebramafam.it (from abroad ph. 00800 11133300) How to get there: [email protected] A32 Torino-Bardonecchia, www.artito.arti.beniculturali.it exit Bardonecchia How to get there: A55 Torino beltway, exit corso Regina Margherita

Ë Ë

Fri-Sun: 1.30 pm-6.30 pm; reservation required at the Free Number 800 329329  (from abroad ph. 00800 11133300)

June-Sept according to a pre-set schedule: 10.00 am-6.00 pm; Monday-Thusday  May-Oct upon reservation for groups (min party of 25) E E

E Abbonamento Musei E Abbonamento Musei 20 21 Forte di Exilles Forte di Fenestrelle

Even though the first evidence of the It was Vittorio Amedeo II who existence of a military structure in The confinement in this fortress, wanted the impregnable fortress to What appears at first sight to be one the initial part of the Alta Valle di between 1681 and 1687, of the be built when – in 1713 – having same construction is in actual fact a Susa goes back to the 7th century, character who went down in history regained possession of Val set of various forts, joined vertically the building of the fort was started as the Iron Mask, is legendary. after centuries of French domination, by a covered stairway that, with its in 1255 as a castle for the Dauphin His identity has remained unknown, he wanted to protect the territories 3,996 steps, is the longest in Europe. princes. The area was given to but there have been many that he had just reconquered with The fort was never used for military Vittorio Amedeo II’s Piemonte by conjectures made on this subject: the Utrecht Treaty. The restoration action, but as a prison-fortress: France with the 1713 Utrecht Treaty. a twin brother of the Sun-King, a work, which had been started in cardinal Pacca, minister of Pius VII, The fort is its own museum: papers, black son of Queen Anne, one of the 1727 under the direction of the among others, was imprisoned here. plastic, drawings and the itinerary main characters in the clashes of military engineer Ignazio Bertola, for visiting it help to understand its the nobility of the time... was continued for over a hundred fortified architecture and age-old years, leading to the realization of Forte di Fenestrelle history. what is to this day the biggest alpine Strada al Forte 1 - Fenestrelle fortification in Europe and the Forte di Exilles ph. +39 0121 83600 largest brickwork construction after Località Forte di Exilles - Exilles [email protected] the Great Wall of China. ph. +39 0122 58270 www.fortedifenestrelle.com Ë [email protected] How to get there: www.museomontagna.org A55 Torino-Pinerolo, exit Pinerolo, How to get there: SR23 to Fenestrelle A32 Torino-Bardonecchia, exit Susa ovest, SR24 to Exilles Ë

Apr 15-Sept 30, Tue-Sun: 10.00 am-7.00 pm;  Oct 1-Apr 14, Tue-Sun: 10.00 am-2.00 pm

Sept-June, Mon and Fri-Sun: 8.30 am-6.30 pm; Monday, January 1 and December 25  July-Aug, every day: 8.30 am-6.30 pm; reservation required E E

E Abbonamento Musei E Abbonamento Musei 22 23 Beauties “en passant”.

Many other fabulous castles, palaces and fortresses add to the preciousness of In the following pages a brief overview Torino and its beautiful province, but for of these destinations will enable you to various reasons they are closed to the integrate your itinerary so as not to miss public. Even though it is not possible out on any of the magnificent fortresses Palazzina di Caccia di Stupinigi to visit their interiors, their façades and of local art and culture. the settings in which they emerge are Piazza Principe Amedeo 7, definitely worth a detour. www.mauriziano.it Closed for restoration works Castello di Area dei 5 laghi, Montalto Dora Palazzo Castello di www.comune.montalto-dora.to.it Via Accademia delle Scienze 5, Torino Piazza Baden Baden, Moncalieri Open on special occasions Batteria dello Chaberton www.comune.torino.it/musei www.ambienteto.arti.beniculturali.it Monte Chaberton, Montgenèvre Closed for restoration works Closed for restoration works www.fortechaberton.com Castello di Rivalta Reacheable on foot (3,130 m above sea level) Via Orsini 7, Rivalta www.castellodirivalta.it Open on special occasions Forte Serre Marie Strada Provinciale dell’Assietta (SR 173), Fenestrelle Viale Mattioli 39 - , Torino Reacheable also by car from Pra Cartinat (1,982 m above sea level) www.comune.torino.it/musei Faculty of Architecture of the Politecnico di Torino

24 25 Holidays à la carte. Weekend in & around Torino Torino+Piemonte Card Weekend in & around Torino is an Torino+Piemonte Card offers you the keys to the the extraordinary opportunity to turn your city… and the whole region. For a a period varying weekend into a true vacation. Choose where form 2 to 7 days you can move freely amongst the to sleep from the many participating hotels in beauties of Torino and Piemonte, while saving money. Torino and surrounding area and benefit from Free admission to more than 160 cultural sites as well this formula featuring two nights -breakfast as free transportation on public and tourist means of included- and a 2-day Torino-Piemonte Card transport in Torino. Furthermore there are reductions on for each adult, as well as many wonderful many cultural and sporting activities and a Junior Card surprises. And if you decide to stay one night at a special rate for under 18. more, take advantage of even better rates!

Tour in & around Torino Tour in & around Torino is the solution to the dilemmas of every traveler: better be alone or in good company? Choose among the various itineraries proposed: in Torino enjoy the tour of the historical centre and of the () If you want to relive atmospheres from other times, by joining the pleasure of or pick one of the many Theme Tours in town and in the surroundings. history with the charm of story-telling, some castles offer you the opportunity to join interesting theatrical tours. A suggestive way to discover the magic of these places from the very voice of actors that bring to life events of the past, with the support of costumed Ë Gourmet in & around Torino Gourmet in & around Torino is an alluring interpreters of the Historical Groups. occasion to enjoy our best food and drink To find out the places, and the schedule of these original tradition at convenient prices. Choose from the initiatives, log on to the website www.turismotorino.org or menus specially intended for “Tavole del Sapore”: the participating restaurants in and around contact one of the TIC listed at the end of this brochure. Torino propose delicious local specialties and international cuisine accompanied by cordial and friendly hospitality. Make the most of this great opportunity!

City Sightseeing Torino ChocoPass City Sightseeing Torino is a true ChocoPass is your passport to the endless companion of your journey in Torino. seductions of chocolate: the delicious set of coupons offers you 23 tastings to be savoured TRAVELLING WITH FRIENDS...? Thanks to this “panoramic” double-decker bus you can discover the city’s many souls, in 3 days. Gianduiotti, pralines, cakes, biscuits, planning your visit according to your ice creams and hot chocolate: the best chocolate production awaits you in the historical cafés and If you are travelling as part of a group, interests. The whole tour, featuring a 6- language audio system, takes one hour but patisseries of Torino. And for an aristocratic treat please contact us tofi nd our the rates of give in to the temptation of the Merende Reali: the tourist guides and the possibilities for you can hop-on and hop-off whenever you booking tours. wEish. Take it…easy! the gourmand appointments that conquered the Savoy court. Write to [email protected] or call +39 011 535181. E

26 In & around Torino Palaces, In Torino

Castles 14 Palazzo Madama.....p.17 and Forts 15 Palazzo Reale ...... p.18 17 Villa della Regina...p.20

Castello del Valentino...... p.24

Palazzo Carignano ..p.25

Around Torino

Appartamenti Reali 1 di Borgo Castello ...... p.4

2 Castello Biandrate di Foglizzo...... p.5 12 Castello di Rivoli...... p.15

Castello Biandrate 13 Castello di Valperga ...... p.16 3 di San Giorgio ...... p.6 16 Reggia di Venaria Reale..p.19 Castello Cavour 4 di Santena ...... p.7 18 Forte di Bramafam...... p.21 19 Forte di Exilles ...... p.22 5 Castello Ducale di Aglié ...... p.8 20 Forte di Fenestrelle ...... p.23

6 Castello di Ivrea ...... p.9 Castello di Moncalieri ....p.24 Castello Malgrà 7 Castello di Montalto Dora ..p.24 di Rivarolo...... p.10 Castello di Rivalta ...... p.24 8 Castello di Masino...... p.11 Palazzina di Caccia 9 Castello di Mazzé ...... p.12 di Stupinigi...... p.25

10 Castello di Pralormo ...... p.13 Batteria dello Chaberton...p.25

11 Castello di Rivara...... p.14 Forte Serre Marie...... p.25

28 The Tourist Information Centers.

Choose Torino, with its mountains and its wonderful surroundings: you’ll find just the right holiday for you! The Tourist Information Centers – TIC – of Turismo Torino e Provincia await you to provide you with a wide range of useful information on museums and exhibitions, festivals and events, winter and summer sports, restaurants and historical cafés, Royal Residences, forts and abbeys. Moreover, our staff is at your complete disposal to help you find the accommodation that suits you best and assist you with a free booking service. And there’s more: once you have the right information and your lodging is booked, you can www.pho-to.it. Reale, Venaria La Piemonte, Regione get the most out of your stay purchasing right away Torino+Piemonte Card, ChocoPass, guided tours and excursions, as well as tickets for shows and public transport. And don’t forget to begin at best your exciting experience by browsing among our gadgets and souvenirs. The TIC are open every day* to welcome you and

give you the assistance you may need:

Texts by Monica Manescotto - Translation by Isolde Sheridan Sheridan Isolde by Translation - Manescotto Monica by Texts

We acknowledge the Owners and the Public Administrations that provided photo material. photo provided that Administrations Public the and Owners the acknowledge We

Photos by: Michele D’Ottavio, Marco Saroldi, Costantino Sergi, Giancarlo Tovo, Dario Prodan. Dario Tovo, Giancarlo Sergi, Costantino Saroldi, Marco D’Ottavio, Michele by: Photos

we’re waiting for you! Provincia, e Torino Turismo fotografico Archivio Creative Project & Art Direction: Eclettica-Akura, www.eclettica-akura.com. Eclettica-Akura, Direction: Art & Project Creative

Edition closed on Jun. 30, 2008.