The captivating history of Racconigi Castle
Racconigi Castle has a rich and fascinating history, transformed in the seventeenth century into a modern residence and became important for the Savoy monarchy.
What is the history of Racconigi Castle in Turin?
Racconigi Castle boasts a long and fascinating history. From a medieval residence, it became, in the seventeenth century, a modern pleasure palace for the princes of Carignano and, from the nineteenth century, the preferred summer home of the House of Savoy.
Who transformed Racconigi Castle in the seventeenth century?
Prince Emanuele Filiberto of Savoy-Carignano commissioned in 1676 the architect Guarino Guarini, one of the masters of European Baroque, to transform the ancient medieval castle into a modern residence.
What are the Guarini characteristics of Racconigi Castle?
The northern facade, which opens onto the park, still preserves today the Baroque style of Guarini, with a dynamic and imposing structure.
Who completed Racconigi Castle in the eighteenth century?
Giovanni Battista Borra completed the complex in the mid-eighteenth century, creating the monumental entrance facade in neoclassical style and the famous Hercules and Diana Rooms, richly decorated.
Why was Carlo Alberto connected to Racconigi Castle?
Carlo Alberto belonged to the branch of Savoy-Carignano and had a strong emotional bond with the residence. For this reason, once he ascended to the throne, he made it his preferred summer residence.
Who modernized Racconigi Castle in the nineteenth century?
Carlo Alberto entrusted architect Ernesto Melano with the modernization of the structure and artist Pelagio Palagi with the redecoration of the interiors.
What are the characteristics of Pelagio Palagi's decorations in Racconigi Castle?
Palagi introduced an eclectic taste inspired by Etruscan, Greek, and Roman civilizations, influenced by archaeological discoveries of the time. He created decorated cabinets, exotic rooms, and spaces rich in symbols and colors.
Which internal environments of Racconigi Castle are most significant?
Among the most fascinating are the Etruscan Cabinet, the Dining Room, the Billiard Room, the royal chambers, the kitchens, and the toilets, all perfectly preserved.
Why is Racconigi Castle important for the history of the monarchy?
From the time of Carlo Alberto until 1946, it was the main summer residence of the Savoy royal family, a place of daily life and the backdrop for important political meetings.
Who frequented Racconigi Castle in the twentieth century?
Vittorio Emanuele III chose Racconigi again as a holiday destination and promoted new technological modernization works. Umberto II frequented the residence until the Second World War.
When was Racconigi Castle acquired by the State?
The Italian State purchased the castle in 1980. Since 1997, it has been part of the UNESCO World Heritage along with other Savoy Residences.
What is the most surprising feature of the park of Racconigi Castle?
Its English-style park, designed by the Prussian landscaper Xavier Kurten, is one of the largest and most evocative in Europe, with almost 200 hectares of ancient trees, lakes, paths, and wooded areas.
What styles are present in the park of Racconigi Castle?
The garden is a masterpiece of Romanticism: natural landscapes, ponds, bridges, neo-Gothic greenhouses, farmhouses, and a perfect harmony between nature and architecture.
What animals can be observed in Racconigi Castle?
The park is an important natural oasis where white storks nest, symbol of the residence, along with other local wildlife species.
What neo-Gothic elements are found in the park of Racconigi Castle?
Pelagio Palagi used neo-Gothic style for some structures among greenhouses and farmhouses, perfectly integrated into the romantic landscape designed by Kurten.
What do the Hercules and Diana Rooms of Racconigi Castle represent?
These rooms celebrate the virtues of the Savoy princes and princesses through stuccos, mythological symbols, and monumental decorations.
What modern renovations were introduced in Racconigi Castle?
In the twentieth century, new technical systems, modern bathrooms, heating systems, and updated furnishings were installed, while maintaining the original historical structure.
What does Racconigi Castle represent today?
It is an open-air museum that preserves original furnishings, artistic collections, and perfectly intact period environments, offering visitors a leap into the Savoy past.
Why visit Racconigi Castle?
To admire one of the most fascinating royal residences in Europe, explore a unique romantic park, and discover the daily life of the royal family.
How to reach Racconigi Castle?
The castle is located in Racconigi, about 40 km from Turin, and is easily reachable by car or train. It is a must-stop for lovers of history, art, and nature.
