Castello del Valentino

Castello del Valentino, nestled gracefully along the banks of the River Po in Turin, Italy, is a splendid example of Baroque architecture with a fascinating history that stretches back centuries. This magnificent castle, surrounded by the verdant expanse of Valentino Park, has witnessed various historical epochs and transformations, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Turin.

The Origins and Name

The name Valentino has an intriguing origin. It is believed to derive from the topography of the surrounding area, characterized by a small valley, or from the relics of Saint Valentine that were once housed in a nearby church. The earliest recorded mention of Vallantinum dates back to 1275, and over time, the name evolved into the one we know today.

The Early Structure

The first known structure on this site dates back to the 16th century. It was initially a suburban villa owned by the noble Birago family. In 1564, Duke Emanuele Filiberto of Savoy purchased the villa, but he had to sell it the following year to fund the construction of the Citadel. The villa changed hands several times, eventually being reacquired by the Duke in 1570 on the advice of the renowned architect Andrea Palladio. The villa underwent significant expansion, completed in 1578.

Madama Cristina's Influence

The castle's current form owes much to Madama Reale Maria Cristina of Bourbon, who received it as a wedding gift when she married Vittorio Amedeo I of Savoy. Widowed and ruling as regent, Madama Cristina initiated extensive renovations to transform the building into a maison de plaisance reflecting the French tastes of the time. Under the direction of court architects Carlo di Castellamonte and later his son Amedeo, the castle was adorned with elaborate frescoes and stuccoes by artists such as Isidoro Bianchi and his sons, Tommaso Carlone, and Carlo Solaro.

Subsequent Transformations

The second major renovation in 1645 saw the addition of three frontal pavilions connected by terraced porticoes, forming a semicircular exedra that defined the grand courtyard. The interior was also expanded to include new rooms such as the Hall of War, the Hall of Business, the Hall of Magnificence, the Hall of Hunting, the Hall of Festivities, and the Cabinet of Hercules' Labors.

The final significant remodeling occurred in 1660, giving the castle its distinctive French-style steep roofs. A new frontispiece was added, featuring a commemorative plaque by court rhetorician Emanuele Tesauro. The decorative themes of the new rooms were designed by the Bianchi family, with contributions from artists like Alessandro and Carlo Casella, Bernardino Quadri, Elia Castelli, and Giovanni Luca Corbellino. The frescoes were executed by Giovanni Paolo and Giovanni Antonio Recchi.

19th Century and Military Use

As Turin expanded, the Castello del Valentino became an integral part of the urban fabric while retaining its green surroundings. In the mid-19th century, the castle served various military purposes. During the French occupation, it was assigned to the Royal Army and housed artillery and cavalry units. It briefly hosted Turin's first Veterinary School. The military use continued under the Savoy restoration, with the castle accommodating artillery battalions and the new Pontieri Corps of Engineers. In 1857, the castle was refurbished for the Sixth National Exhibition of Industrial Products, marking a significant transformation.

From the 19th to the 20th Century

Between 1862 and 1866, further renovations included demolishing the front semicircle and central pavilion, replacing them with a new gate that opened up the courtyard. The castle became the site of the Royal Industrial Museum in 1864 and later housed the laboratories of the Royal School of Application for Engineers. In 1906, the Royal Polytechnic of Turin was established, merging these institutions. During World War II, the castle suffered damage from bombings but was promptly restored after the war.

The Castello del Valentino Today

Today, the Castello del Valentino is owned by the Polytechnic University of Turin and houses the Department of Architecture. In 1997, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the Savoy Residences. Recent restorations have revived its original exterior colors, and several rooms, including the Zodiac Room, are now open to visitors. A 17th-century chapel, rediscovered during recent renovations, was reopened to the public in 2018.

Visiting the Castello del Valentino offers a journey through time, from its noble origins to its modern-day role in education and heritage preservation. Its elegant architecture, rich history, and scenic location make it a jewel of Turin, inviting visitors to explore and appreciate its timeless beauty.