The Fascinating History of Agliè Castle Turin
Agliè Castle Turin is a place rich in history, art, and beauty, perfect for an unforgettable visit.
What is the history of Agliè Castle Turin?
Agliè Castle has a history spanning seven centuries. It stands on the remains of an ancient medieval castle from the 12th century and has been the residence of dukes, princes, and kings of the Savoy dynasty over the centuries.
Who built Agliè Castle Turin in the Seventeenth Century?
In the 1640s, the castle was completely rebuilt by Count Filippo San Martino d'Agliè, an influential figure at court and a refined intellectual, as well as a great friend of Cristina of France.
Which 18th-century rooms of Agliè Castle Turin are most famous?
The spectacular Hall of Honor, entirely frescoed by Giovanni Paolo Recchi and his workshop, celebrates the medieval events of King Arduino of Ivrea, ancestor of the San Martino family.
When did Agliè Castle Turin become part of the Savoy residences?
In 1764, Carlo Emanuele III purchased the castle for his son Benedetto Maurizio, Duke of Chiablese.
Who was the architect of the 18th-century transformations of Agliè Castle Turin?
Ignazio Birago di Borgaro reshaped the entire complex, harmoniously integrating it with the village of Agliè and creating new structures such as the square and the parish church.
What interventions characterize the interiors of Agliè Castle Turin in the 18th century?
The Hall of Hunts, created as an entrance atrium, was decorated in 1770 with hunting trophies in stucco made by Giuseppe Bolina, introducing a sober and refined neoclassical taste.
What can be seen in the gardens of Agliè Castle Turin?
The gardens are splendid: the park was redesigned in the French style by Michel Benard, creating a large circular lake and the scenic Fountain of the Rivers, enriched by sculptures by the Collino brothers.
What uses did Agliè Castle Turin have during the Napoleonic period?
During the French occupation, the castle was transformed into a shelter for the needy, suffering a period of great decline.
Who restored and expanded the collections of Agliè Castle Turin in the 19th century?
In 1823, the castle returned to the Savoy and was renovated by Michele Broda on behalf of Carlo Felice and his wife Maria Cristina of Bourbon, who significantly enriched the collections.
What are the archaeological collections of Agliè Castle Turin?
Queen Maria Cristina was passionate about archaeology. The finds from her excavations in Lazio are now preserved in the Tuscan Hall.
What transformations affected the park of Agliè Castle Turin in the 19th century?
Between 1838 and 1840, the landscape architect Xavier Kurten converted part of the park into a romantic garden, following the 19th-century fashion.
Who increased the oriental collections of Agliè Castle Turin?
Duke Tomaso of Savoy, son of Ferdinando of Savoy, expanded the collections with oriental and ethnographic objects collected during a diplomatic trip to Asia.
What role did Agliè Castle Turin play during World War I?
Isabella of Bavaria, wife of Duke Tomaso, established a hospital in thirteen rooms of the residence for the convalescence of officers.
When did Agliè Castle Turin become state property?
In 1939, the castle was sold to the Italian state and destined to become a museum of itself, preserving its furnishings and collections.
How many rooms does Agliè Castle Turin have?
The residence has over 300 rooms, all rich in history, original furnishings, heterogeneous collections, and artistic testimonies from different eras.
What collections can be admired in Agliè Castle Turin?
The collections include paintings, antique furniture, archaeological finds, oriental works, ornithological collections, and objects of extraordinary variety.
Why is Agliè Castle Turin a must-see place?
Because it represents a journey through Savoy and Italian history, among perfectly preserved rooms, monumental gardens, and a unique artistic heritage.
What makes Agliè Castle Turin special for tourists?
The combination of gardens, baroque architecture, rare collections, and period environments creates a fascinating and evocative path.
How to reach Agliè Castle Turin?
The castle is located in Agliè, about 40 km from Turin, and is easily reachable by car. It is an ideal destination for a trip between art, nature, and history.
