The captivating history of Castello di Rivoli Turin
Castello di Rivoli Turin is a symbol of Savoy history and contemporary art, a place that fascinates visitors with its beauty and past.
What is the history of Castello di Rivoli Turin?
Castello di Rivoli has medieval origins: it was built in the 11th century as a military stronghold strategically located at the entrance of the Susa Valley. Over time, it became one of the most important residences of the Savoy dynasty.
When did Castello di Rivoli Turin become property of the Savoy?
The castle became part of the Savoy possessions in 1247. From that moment on, it began a long process of architectural and artistic transformations.
Why was Castello di Rivoli Turin important for the Savoy court?
In the 16th century, it became the first stable seat of the court of the Savoy duchy. It was transformed into a leisure palace thanks to the interventions of architects Ascanio Vitozzi, Carlo and Amedeo di Castellamonte.
What does the Long Gallery of Castello di Rivoli Turin represent?
The Long Gallery is a ducal pinacotheca over 140 meters long. Built in the 17th century, it housed the court's art collections and is today one of the architectural symbols of the complex.
What interventions were made in the 18th century at Castello di Rivoli Turin?
At the beginning of the 18th century, Vittorio Amedeo II entrusted Filippo Juvarra with a grand reconstruction project for the castle. The goal was to make it a prestigious royal residence.
Who was Filippo Juvarra in the context of Castello di Rivoli Turin?
Juvarra was the great architect of the Savoy court. Between 1717 and 1727, he designed a monumental castle, with refined environments and scenic spaces. However, the project remained unfinished.
Why did the project of Castello di Rivoli Turin remain unfinished?
After the arrest of Vittorio Amedeo II in 1731, the works stopped. The new king, Carlo Emanuele III, preferred to invest in other residences such as the Palazzina di Caccia di Stupinigi.
Which artists decorated Castello di Rivoli Turin in the 18th century?
For the gallery, works by the best artists of the time were selected, including Gaspar van Wittel, Sebastiano Conca, Francesco Solimena, Sebastiano Ricci, and Francesco Trevisani.
Who intervened on Castello di Rivoli Turin at the end of the 18th century?
Carlo Randoni resumed work in 1793 on behalf of Vittorio Emanuele, Duke of Aosta. He is responsible for the design of the second-floor apartment and the refined Chinese salon.
What happened to Castello di Rivoli Turin in the 19th century?
With the Restoration, many original furnishings were dispersed. In 1883, the castle was sold to the municipality of Rivoli and transformed into a military barracks.
Did Castello di Rivoli Turin suffer damage during World War II?
Yes, the castle was hit by bombings. For a period, demolition was even considered, which fortunately did not happen.
When did the recovery of Castello di Rivoli Turin begin?
An initial recovery attempt was launched in 1961, on the occasion of the centenary of Italian Unification. However, the real restoration began in 1979.
Who restored Castello di Rivoli Turin in the 20th century?
The important restoration was led by architect Andrea Bruno. His intervention created a visual continuity between the ancient parts, the unfinished ones, and the modern spaces.
When did the Museum of Contemporary Art of Castello di Rivoli Turin open?
In 1984, the first Museum of Contemporary Art in Italy was inaugurated inside the castle. Since then, it has been an international reference point.
What does the collection of the Museum of Castello di Rivoli Turin include?
The collection ranges from the 1960s to today, with works of Arte Povera, Transavanguardia, Minimal Art, Body Art, and Land Art. Many of the protagonists of contemporary art are represented.
What does the Long Gallery of the Museum of Castello di Rivoli Turin host?
On the third floor of the Long Gallery, there is a unique exhibition space where large-scale works and contemporary installations are presented.
What is the role of the Cerruti Foundation in Castello di Rivoli Turin?
Thanks to the 2017 agreement between Castello di Rivoli and the Cerruti Foundation, since 2019, an exhibition space has been opened that hosts an extraordinary collection.
What does the Cerruti Foundation collection at Castello di Rivoli Turin include?
The collection includes masterpieces ranging from the Renaissance to contemporary art, with works by Bacon, Picasso, Modigliani, Warhol, Klee, and Kandinsky.
Why is Castello di Rivoli Turin a unique place for tourists?
Because it combines history, architecture, and contemporary art in a unique scenic context, where the unfinished harmoniously coexists with the modern.
What to see today in Castello di Rivoli Turin?
You can visit the historical environments, the restored rooms, temporary exhibitions, and permanent collections. The experience is made special by the contrast between past and present.
Where is Castello di Rivoli Turin located?
The castle is located about 15 km from Turin, on a panoramic point that dominates the entrance of the Susa Valley and offers a spectacular view of the city and the mountains.
