The fascinating history of Villa della Regina Torino
Villa della Regina Torino is a historical and architectural jewel, loved by queens and princesses, recently restored and open to the public.
What is the history of Villa della Regina Torino?
Villa della Regina originated in the seventeenth century as a hillside vineyard of Cardinal Maurizio di Savoia. Over the centuries, it became one of the most beloved residences of duchesses, princesses, and queens of the House of Savoy. The villa was recently reopened to the public after a long and careful restoration.
Why is it called Villa della Regina Torino?
The name comes from its use: for over two centuries, it was the preferred residence of the Savoy consorts. The queens and princesses who lived there left a refined imprint on the furnishings, decorations, and structure of the villa.
What are the origins of Villa della Regina Torino?
The villa was born around 1615 as a hillside residence of Cardinal Maurizio and Princess Ludovica Cristina. Over time, it became an increasingly important royal residence, enriched by expansions and artistic interventions.
What to see in Villa della Regina Torino?
Visitors can admire the Royal Apartments, overlooking the large hall decorated by artists of the eighteenth century. The rooms feature stuccos, frescoes, and furnishings that reflect the taste for precious arts and exoticism that was widespread in the European courts of the time.
What is the role of the gardens of Villa della Regina Torino?
Surrounding the villa are splendid Italian gardens with fountains, pavilions, water features, and agricultural areas that have now returned to productivity. These scenic spaces make the villa one of the most enchanting places on the Turin hills.
What transformations occurred in the eighteenth century at Villa della Regina Torino?
With the transition to Anna Maria d'Orléans, consort of Vittorio Amedeo II, important transformation works began. The architect Filippo Juvarra renewed the residence, making it even more elegant and sumptuous.
Who was Filippo Juvarra in the history of Villa della Regina Torino?
Juvarra, the court architect, designed interventions that changed the structure of the villa. He created new rooms, decorated vaults, and refined environments that still represent an example of Piedmontese Baroque architecture today.
Which artists decorated Villa della Regina Torino?
Among the artists involved in the decoration were Claudio Francesco Beaumont, Giuseppe Dallamano, Giambattista Crosato, and Corrado Giaquinto. Their works enrich halls, vaults, and cabinets with elegance and colors typical of the eighteenth century.
What are the China cabinets in Villa della Regina Torino?
The China cabinets are small salons decorated with objects and motifs inspired by the East. These rooms reflect the taste for exoticism that was very fashionable among the European courts of the eighteenth century.
What is the role of Juvarra's students at Villa della Regina Torino?
After Juvarra, the works continued thanks to his student Giovanni Pietro Baroni di Tavigliano. He is responsible for the creation of the large entrance hall and the continuation of the decorations started by the master.
What happened to Villa della Regina Torino in the nineteenth century?
Starting in 1865, the villa ceased to be a royal residence and became the seat of the National Institute of the Daughters of Soldiers. The rooms were transformed into classrooms, bedrooms, and reception halls.
Which furnishings were transferred from the Palace of Villa della Regina Torino?
Many original furnishings were moved from the House of Savoy to Rome to set up the Quirinale. Among these were the panels of the China cabinets, the library of Carlo Emanuele III, and the canvases of Giaquinto depicting the stories of Aeneas.
Did Villa della Regina Torino suffer historical damage?
Yes, the villa was damaged by bombings in 1942-1943 and by a significant theft that occurred in 1979. These events caused further losses of furnishings and decorations.
When did the restoration of Villa della Regina Torino begin?
The rebirth process began in 1994 thanks to the Superintendency and public and private entities. The interventions required years of study and meticulous work to recover the structure and historical environments.
When was Villa della Regina Torino reopened to the public?
The villa was reopened in 2008 after a long restoration. The reopening was celebrated with the first harvest of grapes grown in the restored vineyard on the hillside.
What elements make Villa della Regina Torino special for tourists?
The combination of Baroque architecture, precious decorations, scenic gardens, and a view of the city makes the villa an unmissable stop for those visiting Turin.
What does the vineyard of Villa della Regina Torino represent?
The vineyard, restored and put back into production, is a unique example of historical urban agriculture. It offers a direct connection to the agricultural past of the seventeenth-century vineyard.
How does Villa della Regina Torino present itself today?
Today the villa is an elegant, well-kept place rich in history. The restored rooms, the royal apartments, and the gardens make the visit a journey through time.
Why visit Villa della Regina Torino?
Because it is one of the architectural jewels of the Turin hills, a unique royal residence set in gardens and connected to the history of the House of Savoy.
How to reach Villa della Regina Torino?
The villa is located on the hills of Turin, just a few minutes from the center. It can be reached on foot, by bus, or by taxi. The view of the city fully rewards the journey.
What atmosphere is felt at Villa della Regina Torino?
The atmosphere is relaxing, elegant, and rich in historical charm. Walking through the gardens and crossing the decorated rooms allows for an immersive experience in Savoy history.
