Palazzo Carignano

In the heart of Turin, Italy, stands the magnificent Palazzo Carignano, an architectural masterpiece and a beacon of Italian history. This Baroque gem, nestled in the bustling city center, is a testament to the grandeur and elegance of 17th-century architecture. With its rich history and stunning design, Palazzo Carignano is a must-visit for anyone exploring Turin.

The History of Palazzo Carignano

Commissioned by Emanuele Filiberto di Savoia-Carignano, known as the Mute, Palazzo Carignano was designed by the brilliant architect Guarino Guarini. Construction began in 1679 under the supervision of Guarini’s collaborator, Gian Francesco Baroncelli. The palace became the permanent residence of the Carignano family in 1694 and was home to notable figures such as Carlo Alberto di Carignano and his wife Maria Teresa Asburgo Lorena. The palace’s historical significance is further highlighted by the birth of Vittorio Emanuele II of Savoy, the first king of unified Italy, within its walls. This momentous event is commemorated by a grand decorative frieze on the façade, added by Carlo Ceppi in 1884.

In 1831, with Carlo Alberto's ascension to the throne, the palace was ceded to the state and became the home of the Council of State and the Directorate of Posts. By 1848, it had transformed into the seat of the Chamber of Deputies of the Subalpine Parliament. Architect Carlo Sada modified the grand ballroom, located within the elliptical body of the façade, to serve as the parliamentary chamber. The palace was expanded eastward between 1863 and 1871 to accommodate the growing needs of the new Italian Parliament. Although the grand new hall was never used for its intended purpose, the original parliamentary chamber was declared a national monument in 1898.

Exploring Palazzo Carignano

A visit to Palazzo Carignano offers a journey through time, showcasing the opulence and historical importance of this majestic building. The palace consists of two main sections: the original 17th-century structure and the 19th-century extension. The original section, designed by Guarini, features a C-shaped layout with two wings – the Mezzanotte wing to the north and the Mezzogiorno wing to the south. The façade facing Piazza Carignano is a striking example of Baroque architecture, with its intricate brickwork and elaborate decorations. The façade’s curves and undulations reflect the influence of Gian Lorenzo Bernini’s designs for the Louvre.

Inside, the palace is equally impressive. The ground floor houses the private apartments of the Carignano family in the Mezzanotte wing and the state apartments in the Mezzogiorno wing. The first floor features beautifully decorated rooms with frescoes by Stefano Maria Legnani, known as Il Legnanino. Although only a few of these frescoes have survived, they offer a glimpse into the artistic splendor of the time. Highlights include the Parade Room with its depiction of the Prince presented by Minerva to Juno, the Wedding Chamber with the Triumph of Diana, and the Bedroom with the Olympus fresco.

The National Museum of the Italian Risorgimento

The palace’s first floor also houses the National Museum of the Italian Risorgimento, which reopened in 2011 after extensive restoration. This museum is dedicated to the history of Italy’s unification and features a vast collection of artifacts, documents, and exhibits that tell the story of Italy’s struggle for independence and unity. Visitors can explore the museum’s many rooms, each filled with fascinating displays that bring the past to life.

The 19th-Century Extension

The 19th-century extension of Palazzo Carignano, designed by architect Domenico Ferri, features an imposing façade in an eclectic pseudo-Renaissance style. This extension was intended to house the Italian Parliament and includes a grand hall that, although never used for its original purpose, adds to the palace’s architectural grandeur. The extension seamlessly integrates with the original structure, creating a unified and impressive building that dominates Piazza Carlo Alberto.

Events and Cultural Significance

Throughout its history, Palazzo Carignano has hosted numerous cultural and historical events. In 1935, it was the site of the Historical Exhibition in Palazzo Carignano, organized by the Fascist Confederation of Professionals and Artists. This exhibition highlighted the history of the House of Savoy from the Middle Ages to the Kingdom of Italy. The palace also hosted the 1937 Exhibition of Piedmontese Baroque and the 1938-1939 Exhibition of Gothic and Renaissance Art in Piedmont, both curated by Vittorio Viale.

Today, Palazzo Carignano continues to be a cultural hub, home to various institutions and associations such as the Subalpine Historical Deputation and the Franco Antonicelli Cultural Union. The palace’s rich history and architectural beauty make it a prominent landmark in Turin, attracting visitors from around the world.

In conclusion, Palazzo Carignano is not just a historic building; it is a symbol of Italy’s rich cultural heritage and a testament to the grandeur of Baroque architecture. Its walls have witnessed the birth of kings, the deliberations of parliaments, and the evolution of a nation. A visit to this magnificent palace is a journey through history, offering a glimpse into the opulent past of Turin and the enduring legacy of the House of Savoy.