Turin: The Jewel of
Northern Italy

Marya Valli

With its grand boulevards and palaces, Turin has a sophisticated, aristocratic atmosphere; the city’s charming Old World shops blend beautifully with leafy parks and art galleries. Bordered by picturesque mountains, this Northern Italian gem is rich in  Renaissance, baroque, rococo and neoclassical architecture. It’s also the home of Italian coffee culture, cars (it’s where Fiat is headquartered), and even football (Juventus F.C. and Torino F.C. play here). Discover some of the quintessential sights of this beautiful city.

Cathedral of San Giovanni Battista

The majestic but innovative baroque architecture aside, the cathedral is best known as the home of the Holy Shroud, more commonly called the “Shroud of Turin.” This mystical prize is believed by some to be the piece of cloth that enveloped the body of Christ for three days after the crucifixion, though various scientific tests date it to the 1300s. It is kept in a cask on the high altar of the Chapel of the Sacra Sindone. The relic came into Savoy hands in 1430 and has been conserved in this specially built chapel since 1694. While it is only shown to the public on very special occasions, a life-size photographic replica is on display for those wishing to get an idea.

Santissimi Martiri

In many ways the favourite church of the Turinese, Santissimi Martiri features impressive original frescoes and a stunning altar.

Palazzo Madama

Nearby, on Piazza Castello, is the Palazzo Madama, which traces Turin’s history in a single building. The brick 16-cornered towers were once the Roman city gate before being incorporated into a medieval castle. Later graced with Filippo Juvara’s baroque façade and a world-renowned double staircase.