The fascinating history of Palazzo Carignano in Turin
Palazzo Carignano in Turin is a Baroque masterpiece, a symbol of Savoy history and Italian unification.
What is the history of Palazzo Carignano in Turin?
Palazzo Carignano is one of the most original Baroque architectures in Europe. It was built in 1679 at the behest of Emanuele Filiberto of Savoy-Carignano, who wanted a building that could represent the prestige of his house.
Who designed Palazzo Carignano in Turin?
The project was entrusted to Guarino Guarini, one of the greatest Baroque architects. Guarini was inspired by the designs of Gian Lorenzo Bernini for the Louvre, creating a palace unique in form and style.
What are the architectural features of Palazzo Carignano in Turin?
The brick facade has a wavy and curvilinear shape, typical of Piedmontese Baroque. The oval atrium and the double internal staircases create a surprising scenography.
What was the original structure of Palazzo Carignano in Turin?
The original plan was C-shaped, open towards the gardens and stables. Only in the 19th century, with the expansion intended for Parliament, did it take on its current rectangular shape.
Why is Palazzo Carignano in Turin important for the Savoy history?
It is the place where Carlo Alberto and Vittorio Emanuele II were born, protagonists of the history of the Kingdom of Sardinia and Italian unification.
What is the role of Palazzo Carignano in the Risorgimento?
In 1848 it hosted the Subalpine Parliament, the first representative assembly of the Kingdom of Sardinia. Subsequently, it became the seat of the first Italian Parliament.
What happened to Palazzo Carignano during the Unification of Italy?
In 1861, in the provisional hall set up in the courtyard, Vittorio Emanuele II promulgated the act that officially sanctioned the birth of the Kingdom of Italy.
Why was Palazzo Carignano expanded in the 19th century?
The original parliamentary seat was too small. For this reason, a new building was constructed with a facade facing Piazza Carlo Alberto, designed to accommodate the Italian Parliament.
Was the 19th-century parliamentary hall of Palazzo Carignano ever used?
No. The works were completed when the capital had already been transferred to Florence, so the hall was never used by Parliament.
Which artists decorated Palazzo Carignano in the 17th century?
Stefano Maria Legnani frescoed the ceilings with mythological scenes. Pietro Antonio Garoe and Pietro Somasso created innovative stuccos that anticipated the French Rococo.
Which rooms of Palazzo Carignano are particularly famous?
The rooms of the southern wing, covered by Giovanni Luigi Bosso with carvings, mirrors, and gilding, are known as the golden rooms.
How do the Prince's Apartments of Palazzo Carignano appear?
The apartments on the ground floor preserve splendid boiseries, delicate stuccos, refined furnishings, and an elegant atmosphere typical of European Rococo.
Who lived in Palazzo Carignano during the Napoleonic period?
Camillo Borghese and Paolina Bonaparte lived in the palace during the French occupation.
What happened to the original furnishings of Palazzo Carignano?
When Carlo Alberto ascended to the throne in 1831, much of the furnishings were transferred to the Royal Palace, to the Castle of Racconigi, and to that of Pollenzo.
What is found today in Palazzo Carignano?
Since 1938, the rooms on the noble floor have hosted the National Museum of Italian Risorgimento, one of the most important historical museums in the country.
What can be seen during a visit to the Risorgimento Museum in Palazzo Carignano?
The museum displays documents, works of art, historical objects, uniforms, and fundamental testimonies of the Italian unification process.
What role does Palazzo Carignano play today for the city?
It is a fundamental cultural destination, a symbol of national history, and an extraordinary example of Baroque architecture visited by tourists from all over the world.
Why is Palazzo Carignano considered unique from an architectural point of view?
The combination of curvilinear facade, oval atrium, scenic staircases, and innovative structural solutions makes the palace a masterpiece of European Baroque.
How to reach Palazzo Carignano in Turin?
It is located a few steps from Piazza Castello and Piazza Carlo Alberto, and is easily reachable on foot from all the main attractions in the historic center.
Why visit Palazzo Carignano in Turin?
To discover where united Italy was born, admire one of the most beautiful Baroque buildings in Europe, and immerse yourself in Savoy and Risorgimento history.
