Turin has a special place in the evolution of Italy from being a Savoy Kingdom to the capital of Italy. In more recent times its car industry is recognised as pioneers in car production and following World War II it took the lead in Italy’s economic recovery and growth.
The history of this great city is told through its magnificent buildings, none more revealing than the Royal Palace where Emperors and Kings reigned and where for the first time the ideal of a united Italy was mooted. If you are in Turin a tour of the Royal Palace is a must and on this private tour your guide can tailor the visit to meet your particular interests.
You meet with your guide at the entrance to the Royal Palace to discover the treasures of this UNESCO World Heritage site. The first port of call is the Royal Apartments where you can see the ornate chandeliers, finely-woven carpets, elegant tapestries and inlaid furniture of the highest quality. The cavernous rooms are decorated with amazing frescoes and as you tour the apartments your guide will recount tales of the Royal Family. Of particular interest is the “Scala delle Forbici”, made by Filippo Juvarra an amazing architectural peculiarity.
Next you visit the Galleria Beaumont that houses the Royal Armoury. A passion of King Carlo Alberto, he amassed one of the greatest collections of weapons and armour in the world. In 1832 when the paintings were removed from the Galleria to the Regia Pinacoteca the armoury was created and has some stunning exhibits from the 16th century as well as examples of oriental armoury.
As you progress through the palace you will realise that many of the beautiful treasures owe their existence to Carlo Alberto, key amongst these being the Royal Library. Here you will find over two hundred thousand books, ancient manuscripts, engravings and drawing, including the famous “Self-portrait” by Leonardo da Vinci.
Finally on the tour is a visit to the Cappella della Sacra Sindone (Chapel of the Holy Shroud) where the precious shroud was housed until the early 90s. Following the fire of 1997 the chapel was closed to visitors and underwent a long and complex restoration. In 2008 it was re-opened to the public but the shroud itself is now under close guard in the Duomo.
There is so much to see at the Royal Palace; the wonderful architecture, antique furniture, artworks, armour and rare books. Join your guide for a superb 2.5 hour journey back in time. Book now!
