Piazza Castello
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The monumental and political heart of Torino, Piazza Castello is ringed by Savoy palaces, elegant arcades and royal residences. The main streets of the centre branch off from here. Your treasure map leads you into the Baroque stage set the Savoy built to celebrate their power.
History
Piazza Castello has been the historic and symbolic centre of Torino since Roman times, when one of the city gates stood here. Its present Baroque layout was planned from the 16th century onwards and developed over the following centuries by the Savoy court architects, who turned it into the theatrical focal point of the duchy's capital.
What to see
In the middle of the square rises Palazzo Madama, which blends the old medieval castle with a sumptuous Baroque façade designed by Filippo Juvarra; today it houses the Museo Civico d'Arte Antica.
The square is also overlooked by the Palazzo Reale and the church of San Lorenzo, and important streets such as via Po, via Garibaldi and via Roma flow into it. All around, the elegant arcades offer shelter and house historic cafés.
Curiosities
Palazzo Madama owes its name to the "Madame Reali", two regents of the House of Savoy who lived there between the 17th and 18th centuries. Palazzo Madama and the Palazzo Reale, both on the square, are among the Savoy Residences recognised by UNESCO.
Visiting
The square is pedestrian and freely accessible at any time. It is the ideal starting point for exploring the centre of Torino: from the Palazzo Reale to the Cathedral and on to the shopping streets, everything is within walking distance.
