1. Overview
The Mole Antonelliana is the most iconic landmark of Turin, standing tall with its distinctive spire visible from across the city. Originally designed as a synagogue in the 19th century, it now houses the renowned National Museum of Cinema. Its combination of architectural grandeur and cultural depth makes it a symbol of both historic ambition and modern creativity in Turin. It’s a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts, film lovers, and anyone wanting panoramic views of the city.
2. History of the Place
- Construction began in 1863, originally intended to be a synagogue.
- Designed by architect Alessandro Antonelli, known for ambitious and towering structures.
- Abandoned by the Jewish community due to construction delays and cost overruns.
- Acquired by the City of Turin and repurposed as a monument to national unity.
- Completed in 1889, long after Antonelli’s death.
- At 167.5 meters, it was the tallest brick building in Europe at the time.
- Converted into the National Museum of Cinema in 2000.
- The panoramic elevator was added in 1961, allowing direct access to the dome’s viewing platform.
- The building is depicted on the Italian 2-cent euro coin.
- It hosted cultural events during the 2006 Winter Olympics.
3. What Makes Mole Antonelliana Popular?
The Mole Antonelliana is famous for its dramatic height, eclectic architecture, and its transformation into one of the most innovative museums in Italy—the National Museum of Cinema. The glass panoramic elevator ride is a highlight, offering visitors breathtaking 360-degree views of Turin and the surrounding Alps. Its appearance on coins, postcards, and Olympic branding makes it a cultural symbol of Turin.
4. Overall Ratings (1 to 5 Stars)
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
Cultural Significance: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
Authenticity: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
Atmosphere & Environment: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
Accessibility: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)
Tourist Friendliness: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
5. Weather
Turin experiences four distinct seasons. The best time to visit Mole Antonelliana is during spring (April to June) or autumn (September to October), when the skies are clear for panoramic views. Winters can be chilly with fog, while summers may bring heatwaves.
Best Time to Visit: April to June, September to October
Temperature Range: 13°C to 25°C
Rainfall: Moderate in spring and autumn
Sunset: Great time for viewing the city from the panoramic lift
6. Nearest Five Hotels
- NH Collection Torino Piazza Carlina – Elegant stay with rooftop dining, 10 mins walk.
- Hotel Victoria – Boutique hotel with classic design and spa, 12 mins walk.
- Grand Hotel Sitea – Luxury accommodation near Piazza San Carlo, 15 mins walk.
- B&B Via Stampatori – Artistic and affordable, 12 mins walk.
- Hotel Roma e Rocca Cavour – Historic hotel opposite Porta Nuova station, 18 mins walk.
7. Timings
Monday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday to Friday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Saturday & Sunday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Note: Last entry 1 hour before closing. Timings may change on public holidays.
8. Time Required to Visit
Visitors typically spend 2 to 3 hours here. Allocate more time if you plan to watch screenings or explore temporary exhibitions.
Visit Duration: 2–3 hours
Panoramic Elevator: ~15 minutes including queue time
Museum Tour: 1.5–2 hours
9. Entry Fees & Ticket Booking Details
Museum Entry: €15
Panoramic Lift Only: €9
Combined Ticket: €20
Children under 6: Free
Online Booking: Strongly recommended, especially on weekends and holidays.
10. Things to See & Do
- Ride the glass elevator to the panoramic dome
- Tour the National Museum of Cinema’s five levels of interactive displays
- Explore exhibits on the history of film, set design, and optical illusions
- Attend special screenings and temporary exhibitions
- Visit the gift shop for movie-themed souvenirs
11. Best Time to Visit
Season: Spring and autumn for clear views and pleasant weather
Time of Day: Late morning or just before sunset for panoramic views
Day of Week: Weekdays are quieter; weekends can get crowded
12. Nearest Parking Spots
Parcheggio Roma-San Carlo-Castello – Underground parking 10 mins away
Parking Porta Palazzo – Good availability, 15 mins walk
Parcheggio Vittorio Veneto – Close to riverside and ~12 mins walk to the Mole
Note: City center has ZTL (limited traffic zones); check signs before entering by car
13. Tips for Visitors
- Buy tickets online to skip queues
- Visit on clear days for the best view from the dome
- Allow extra time on weekends due to crowds
- Wear comfortable shoes as there’s a lot of walking inside the museum
- Photography is allowed but avoid flash in some exhibition areas
14. How to Reach the Place
By Foot: 10–15 minutes from Piazza Castello
By Metro: Nearest station – Porta Nuova (15-minute walk)
By Tram: Line 13, stop at “Montebello”
By Bus: Lines 55, 56, 61 serve the area
Taxi: Available from all parts of the city; the ride from Porta Susa or Porta Nuova takes ~10 minutes
15. Nearby Attractions to Combine for the Visit
- Piazza Castello – Main historic square of Turin
- Palazzo Madama – Baroque palace with an art museum
- Via Po – Historic street perfect for a walk or café stop
- Museo Egizio – One of the world’s largest Egyptian museums
- Parco del Valentino – Beautiful riverside park with walking trails
