The Stupinigi Hunting Lodge between history and beauty
The Stupinigi Hunting Lodge is a Baroque masterpiece that combines history, art, and nature, located just a few kilometers from Turin.
What is the history of the Stupinigi Hunting Lodge in Turin?
The Stupinigi Hunting Lodge was built in 1729 as a residence for hunting and festivities of the Savoy court. Its design was entrusted to the famous architect Filippo Juvarra, who created one of the most extraordinary Baroque complexes in Europe.
Why is the Stupinigi Hunting Lodge considered a masterpiece?
Because it combines architecture, art, and nature in a perfect balance. The scenic structure, the large central hall, and the original furnishings make it one of the most important Savoy residences.
Where is the Stupinigi Hunting Lodge located?
It is located just 10 km from Piazza Castello in Turin, along a perfectly aligned southward axis. It is immersed in the Turin countryside and surrounded by a unique landscape.
What are the origins of the Stupinigi Hunting Lodge?
The Lodge stands on land donated in 1573 by Emanuele Filiberto to the Order of Saints Maurice and Lazarus. It still belongs to the Mauriziano Order Foundation today.
What was the function of the Stupinigi Hunting Lodge?
It was a leisure residence: a place dedicated to hunting, festivities, and the amusements of the Savoy court. A true elegant retreat away from official duties.
How was the Stupinigi Hunting Lodge designed?
Juvarra conceived a structure in the shape of a St. Andrew's cross, with a large elliptical hall at the center and various apartments distributed in the lateral arms.
What makes the central hall of the Stupinigi Hunting Lodge unique?
The hall, designed as a space for parties and ceremonies, is decorated with spectacular fake architectures by the quadraturists Domenico and Giuseppe Valeriani. Natural light enhances every detail, creating a theatrical effect.
What is the main theme of the decorations in the Stupinigi Hunting Lodge?
The theme of hunting dominates frescoes, sculptures, and furnishings. The ceiling of the hall represents the Apotheosis of Diana, the goddess of hunting.
Who expanded the Stupinigi Hunting Lodge after Juvarra?
Carlo Emanuele III commissioned Benedetto Alfieri, starting in 1740, to expand the apartments for the princes. Alfieri continued Juvarra's style with elegance.
What decorative elements characterize the interiors of the Stupinigi Hunting Lodge?
Rococo styles, mirror games, exotic motifs, and oriental wallpapers cover many salons. The decorations create bright and refined environments.
What happened to the Stupinigi Hunting Lodge during the 19th century?
During the French occupation (1798), the expansions were interrupted. In the 19th century, the residence was redecorated to host sovereigns like Carlo Felice and Maria Cristina of Bourbon.
Who inhabited the Stupinigi Hunting Lodge in the 20th century?
Even in the 20th century, the lodge was used for royal stays, including those of Margherita of Savoy.
When did the Stupinigi Hunting Lodge become a museum?
In 1919, the Lodge became home to the Museum of Art and Furnishings. It was a fundamental step for the preservation of its heritage.
What type of furnishings can be seen today in the Stupinigi Hunting Lodge?
Original furnishings from the 18th and 19th centuries, masterpieces of cabinetmaking, paintings, and decorative objects from the Savoy court.
What recent restorations have affected the Stupinigi Hunting Lodge?
Important restoration work allowed the reopening of almost all the noble apartments in 2016. Today, the environments are once again visible in their magnificence.
What does the surrounding territory of the Stupinigi Hunting Lodge represent?
The area around the lodge is an integral part of the original project: farmhouses, stables, warehouses, and a symmetrical landscape designed to accompany hunting activities.
What to see on the visit path of the Stupinigi Hunting Lodge?
The royal apartments, the central hall, the rococo-decorated rooms, the oriental chambers, the collections of period furnishings, and the spaces dedicated to Savoy history.
What role does the Mauriziano Order Foundation play in the Stupinigi Hunting Lodge?
The foundation manages the conservation, enhancement, and cultural activities of the Lodge, ensuring its protection over time.
Why visit the Stupinigi Hunting Lodge?
To discover a masterpiece of European Baroque, experience an immersive journey through history, art, and nature, and admire a unique residence.
How to reach the Stupinigi Hunting Lodge?
It is easily reachable from Turin by car or public transport. Its proximity to the city makes it an ideal destination for a cultural and panoramic visit.
