1. Overview
Palazzo Madama is one of Turin’s most emblematic and historic buildings, situated in the heart of Piazza Castello. With a foundation dating back to the Roman Empire, a medieval castle at its core, and a stunning Baroque façade designed by Filippo Juvarra, the building itself is a layered testament to centuries of history. Today, it serves as the home of the Museo Civico d’Arte Antica (Civic Museum of Ancient Art), showcasing a rich collection of European art and cultural heritage from the Middle Ages to the 18th century.
2. History of the Place
- Built on the remains of an ancient Roman gate in the 1st century BC.
- Became a medieval fortress in the 13th century under the House of Savoy-Acaja.
- Named after the two royal widows (“Madama Reale”) who resided here in the 17th century.
- Christine of France, wife of Victor Amadeus I, made it her residence in the early 1600s.
- Maria Giovanna Battista of Savoy-Nemours initiated architectural modernization in the late 1600s.
- The Baroque façade was added in 1718 by architect Filippo Juvarra.
- Served as the Sardinian Senate and then the first Senate of the Kingdom of Italy from 1848 to 1864.
- Converted into the Museo Civico d’Arte Antica in 1934.
- The building suffered war damage during WWII and was restored afterward.
- Recognized as part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site: Residences of the Royal House of Savoy.
3. What Makes Palazzo Madama Popular?
Palazzo Madama is beloved for its unique architecture that spans Roman, medieval, and Baroque periods in a single structure. Its art collections—including sculptures, illuminated manuscripts, ceramics, jewelry, and furniture—offer an immersive journey through Italy’s rich artistic history. Visitors are also drawn to its monumental staircase by Juvarra and the panoramic views from its medieval towers. Its central location in Piazza Castello adds to its appeal as a cultural anchor 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
Best Time to Visit: Spring (April to June) and Autumn (September to October)
Temperature Range: 13°C to 25°C
Summer (July–August): Warm, suitable for indoor museum visits
Winter (December–February): Cold, but the palace is well-heated and less crowded
6. Nearest Five Hotels
- Grand Hotel Sitea – A luxurious, classic hotel 5 minutes from the palace.
- NH Collection Torino Piazza Carlina – Elegant and modern, 8 minutes walk.
- Hotel Victoria – Boutique with a spa and classic charm, 7 minutes away.
- Principi di Piemonte | UNA Esperienze – Five-star comfort, 10 minutes walk.
- B&B Via Stampatori – Budget-friendly with artistic flair, 10 minutes from Piazza Castello.
7. Timings
Monday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Note: Last admission is at 5:00 PM
8. Time Required to Visit
Visit Duration: 2 to 3 hours
Extended stays may be needed for temporary exhibitions or guided tours
9. Entry Fees & Ticket Booking Details
General Admission: €10
Reduced: €8 (seniors, students)
Free: Children under 18, holders of the Torino+Piemonte Card
Free Entry Days: First Sunday of each month (check availability)
Advance Booking: Recommended, especially during high season
10. Things to See & Do
- Admire the grand staircase designed by Filippo Juvarra
- View Gothic sculptures, medieval reliquaries, and Renaissance paintings
- Visit the glass gallery for ceramics and glassware
- Climb to the medieval tower for panoramic views of Turin
- Attend rotating temporary exhibitions and special events
11. Best Time to Visit
Season: April to June and September to October
Time of Day: Early morning or mid-afternoon for a quieter visit
Day of Week: Wednesday or Thursday for fewer crowds
12. Nearest Parking Spots
Parcheggio Roma-San Carlo-Castello – Closest underground lot, 3 minutes walk
Parcheggio Vittorio Veneto – 10 minutes walk
Parcheggio Porta Palazzo – 12 minutes walk
Note: Located within a ZTL (Limited Traffic Zone); confirm access if arriving by car
13. Tips for Visitors
- Bring a camera—photography is allowed in many areas
- Combine your visit with Palazzo Reale and Museo Egizio nearby
- Wear comfortable shoes—the museum is spread across several floors
- Don’t miss the tower climb for a city view
- Audio guides and guided tours enhance the historical narrative
14. How to Reach the Place
By Foot: Located centrally in Piazza Castello, walkable from any city hotel
By Metro: Porta Nuova station, then 15-minute walk
By Tram: Line 15, stop at Piazza Castello
By Bus: Multiple lines serve the central square
By Taxi: Readily available throughout the city
15. Nearby Attractions to Combine for the Visit
- Palazzo Reale – Right next door, home of the House of Savoy
- Museo Egizio – World-renowned Egyptian museum, 5 minutes walk
- Mole Antonelliana – Turin’s iconic tower and cinema museum
- Via Roma – Upscale shopping and cafés nearby
- Cathedral of Turin – Home of the Shroud of Turin
