Torino is a city rich in history and culture, and its artistic heritage is one of the most important in Italy. Among the eras that have left their mark on the city is undoubtedly the Baroque, which has imprinted its unique character on Torino’s buildings and monuments.

Baroque in Torino

Baroque in Torino developed from the 17th century, coinciding with the rise of the Savoy dynasty, which made the city its capital. The Savoy family were great patrons and promoted the construction of new works of art and architecture, which helped transform Torino into a modern and cosmopolitan city.

The most important architects who worked in Torino during this period were Bernardo Vittone, Guarino Guarini, and Filippo Juvarra. Juvarra is considered one of the main exponents of Italian Baroque. His works include the Royal Palace, the Basilica of Superga, and the Palazzina di Caccia di Stupinigi, which are all considered to be among the masterpieces of world Baroque architecture.

The Baroque period left an indelible mark on Torino’s architecture and art, transforming the city into a jewel of aesthetics and artistic grandeur. During the 17th and 18th centuries, the Baroque era flourished in Torino under the patronage of the Dukes and Kings of Savoy, and transformed the city’s appearance with sumptuous palaces, imposing churches, and extraordinary works of art.

Baroque Palaces

Among the most important Baroque palaces in Torino are:

• Royal Palace: The residence of the Savoys is an imposing building overlooking the central Piazza Castello. Built in the 17th century and designed by Filippo Juvarra, the palace is distinguished by its majestic façade, elaborate decorations, and luxurious interiors. The splendid halls, decorated rooms, and art collection housed inside testify to the historical importance of the palace under the Savoy monarchy.
• Palazzo Madama: One of the most remarkable Baroque masterpieces is located in Piazza Castello. Originally a medieval fortress, it was transformed into a royal residence in the 16th century. Its Baroque façade, designed by Juvarra in the 18th century, combines Baroque elegance with classical elements. Today, the palace houses the Civic Museum of Ancient Art, preserving artistic treasures of inestimable value.
• Palazzo Carignano: In addition to being the birthplace of Italian unity, this palace is an outstanding example of Baroque architecture in Torino. Its façade adorned with intricate details captures visitors’ attention, while the sumptuous interiors reflect the splendour and refinement of the period. It houses the National Museum of the Italian Risorgimento, offering a journey through Italian national history.
• Palazzo Reale di Venaria: One of the most important Savoy residences, this imposing architectural complex was built in the 17th century and designed by Juvarra and is surrounded by a vast park and gardens. Its imposing façade, embellished with decorative details and columns, bears witness to the magnificence of royal residences. Inside, the carefully restored sumptuous rooms offer a glimpse of the luxury and elegance of the era, making the Royal Palace of Venaria a must-see for lovers of Baroque architecture.
• Palazzina di Caccia di Stupinigi: This residence was originally used for hunting, and was built for the Savoy family to a design by Filippo Juvarra in the 18th century. The mansion is an octagonal building with a Baroque façade and a 130-hectare park. The interior of the palace is richly decorated, including frescoes, stucco work, and period furniture. 

Baroque Churches

Among the most important Baroque churches in Torino are:

• Basilica of Superga, a Baroque church designed by Juvarra that stands on top of the Superga hill. Its dome, which dominates the city, is a symbol of Torino. Commissioned by Victor Amadeus II after defeating the French in the 18th century, this magnificent basilica represents the pinnacle of Piedmontese Baroque.
• Chiesa del Carmine, a Baroque church designed by Juvarra is located in the centre of Torino. Its façade, with its columns and statues, is an impressive work of art.
• Church of San Lorenzo, a Baroque church designed by Guarini located in the centre of Torino. Built in the 17th century, it stands out for its sober but richly decorated façade, while the interior boasts splendid Baroque decorations. Works of art by renowned artists adorn the altars, offering an extraordinary perspective on the art and spirituality of the period. Its dome, one of the most beautiful of Italian Baroque, is a masterpiece of engineering and architecture.
• Sanctuary of Consolata, a Baroque church designed by Juvarra located in the centre of Torino. Its façade, with its columns and statues, is an impressive work of art.
• Church of San Filippo Neri, a Baroque church designed by Vittone located in the centre of Torino. Its façade, with its sinuous lines and elaborate decorations, is a unique work of art.
• Church of Santa Cristina: although more modest than others, it offers a fascinating experience of Baroque art in Torino. Built in the 17th century, it stands out for its elegant façade and interiors decorated with stuccoes, frescoes, and works of art that tell religious and historical stories with artistic mastery.

Other Baroque Buildings and Monuments

In addition to palaces and churches, Torino is also home to other noteworthy Baroque buildings and monuments, such as:

• The Savoy Gallery, a magnificent Baroque building constructed in the 17th century as part of the Royal Palace, the gallery is renowned for its art collection that includes works by artists such as Rubens, Rembrandt, and Caravaggio. Designed by Guarino Guarini, the Baroque architecture of the Sabauda Gallery is characterised by elaborate lines, ornamental details and a majestic façade reflecting the opulence and grandeur of the era.
• The National University Library, one of the most important libraries in Italy, is an imposing Baroque building designed by Filippo Juvarra, housing a vast collection of manuscripts, ancient books, and historical documents. Built in the 17th century, the library is an extraordinary example of Baroque architecture, with ornate facades, ornamental columns, and artistic details that lend an aura of nobility and culture. The interior is equally impressive, with ornate reading rooms.
• The Mole Antonelliana, a symbol of Torino, is a neo-Gothic building designed by Alessandro Antonelli. At 167 metres high, it was originally built as a synagogue. In 1932, the Mole Antonelliana was bought by the City of Torino and converted into a cinema museum.
• The Teatro Regio is an opera house that is one of the most important in Italy: inaugurated in 1740, it was designed by Filippo Juvarra; the theatre is adorned with ornamental details, sculpted columns, and an imposing façade, while the interior features sumptuous Baroque interiors. The theatre has hosted some of Italy’s most important operas, including Giuseppe Verdi’s ‘La Traviata’ and ‘Aida’.