Turin City Guide

Located on the River Po in Northern Italy, Turin is a major business and cultural centre in the region. The city is fairly near to Milan, however it is far more satisfying for tourists. With a mixture of urban areas and tranquil parks, Turin provides beautiful buildings, pretty greenery and a mountain backdrop, enough to make any city attractive.

Football plays a large part in the lives of locals here. One of the biggest club rivalries in Italy takes place between Torino and Juventus who both play their home games at the Stadio Olympico. This stadium is worth a visit and on match days and on match days the vibe, typical of any top flight club is contagious.

Many other attractions are situated around the city showing the historical importance of Turin. One of the most known landmarks here is in the Cathedral of John the Baptist. Housed in here is an old linen cloth with the imprint of a man. Many believe it to be that of Jesus Christ. The cloth, however, is not available to see for fear of damage.

The city also contains Museo Egizio, which holds the second most important collection of Egyptian Antiques in the world, the first of course being in Cairo. For a more Italian historical landmark, head over to the Palastine Towers. These are among the best preserved Roman remains in the North of Italy.

For an inspiring view of Turin with a backdrop of the Italian Alps, a walk to the top of the Hill of Superga will suffice. Also situated here is the Basilica of Superga – a church built from 1717 to 1731. Whilst looking over the city, the most recognisable building is the Mole Antonelliana. Origionally built as a Synagogue, this is now home to the National Museum of Cinema and is believed to be the tallest museum in the world. Construction on the building began in 1863 and was designed by the architect Alessandro Antonelli, hence the name.

Whilst many tourists flock to Rome and Venice when visiting Italy, Turin is a beautiful alternative with excellent pizza, interesting architecture, a city atmosphere and nice design. It is surprising to see so much of a large city covered in quiet parks, but this allows Turin to keep a relaxed, tranquil side to this wonderful place.