1. Overview
Museo Nazionale del Risorgimento Italiano is the premier museum in Italy dedicated to the Risorgimento—the historic movement that led to the country’s unification. Located inside the elegant 17th-century Palazzo Carignano in the heart of Turin, the museum narrates Italy’s path to unification through original documents, artifacts, paintings, and immersive multimedia displays. It is the only museum of its kind with national status and is considered one of the most important historical museums in Italy.
2. History of the Place
- Founded in 1878, shortly after Italy’s unification.
- Originally located in the Mole Antonelliana before relocating to Palazzo Carignano in 1938.
- Housed in the former Subalpine Parliament building, later used by the first Italian Parliament.
- Underwent major renovations and reopened in 2011 with updated exhibitions.
- Displays more than 2,500 original artifacts across 30 exhibition rooms.
- Covers events from the Siege of Turin in 1706 to the foundation of the Republic in 1946.
- Features the preserved Chamber of Deputies from the 19th century.
- Holds the original manuscript of Italy’s national anthem, “Il Canto degli Italiani.”
- Contains a library and archive with over 167,000 volumes and rare documents.
- Located in Piazza Carlo Alberto, steps away from other historical landmarks.
3. What Makes Museo Nazionale del Risorgimento Italiano Popular?
The museum is famous for its authentic narrative of Italy’s unification, housed within a building that itself played a major role in the movement. Visitors are especially drawn to the preserved parliamentary chamber, immersive multimedia presentations, and collections related to Cavour, Garibaldi, and Mazzini. It’s an essential stop for anyone interested in Italian history and nationalism.
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: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)
5. Weather
Best Time to Visit: April to June and September to October
Temperature Range: 13°C to 25°C
Being an indoor museum, it is suitable for visiting year-round
Avoid peak heat or cold seasons for the best overall experience in the city
6. Nearest Five Hotels
- NH Collection Torino Piazza Carlina – Upscale hotel within a 5-minute walk
- Grand Hotel Sitea – Historic 5-star stay with refined atmosphere nearby
- Hotel Victoria – Boutique hotel with wellness facilities, 6 minutes away
- Starhotels Majestic – Near Porta Nuova station, offering comfortable rooms
- Hotel Roma e Rocca Cavour – Classic and centrally located, 10 minutes walk
7. Timings
Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Closed on Mondays
Last admission: 5:10 PM
8. Time Required to Visit
Visit Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours
Allocate additional time if exploring the library or attending temporary exhibits
9. Entry Fees & Ticket Booking Details
General Admission: €10
Reduced (seniors 65+, students): €8
Children under 6: Free
Family Ticket: €18 (2 adults + 2 children under 18)
Booking: Tickets available online or on-site
Guided tours: Available by request or on fixed schedules
10. Things to See & Do
- Walk through the original Subalpine Parliament Chamber
- See the manuscript of “Il Canto degli Italiani,” Italy’s national anthem
- Discover authentic flags, military gear, uniforms, and maps from the 18th–20th century
- Engage with interactive displays and multimedia timelines
- Visit temporary exhibitions on historical themes
11. Best Time to Visit
Season: Spring and autumn for comfortable weather and smaller crowds
Time of Day: Morning or early afternoon for a relaxed pace
Day of Week: Weekdays, especially Wednesday or Thursday, for fewer visitors
12. Nearest Parking Spots
Parcheggio Roma–San Carlo–Castello – Underground parking 5 minutes away
Parcheggio Vittorio Veneto – Open lot along the Po River, about 10 minutes walk
Street parking – Available near Via Accademia delle Scienze (check ZTL hours)
13. Tips for Visitors
- Start with the timeline exhibit to orient yourself
- The preserved Parliament Chamber is a highlight—don’t miss it
- Audio guides are available in multiple languages
- Combine your visit with nearby sites like Palazzo Madama or Museo Egizio
- Ideal for students and history lovers—allow time to read and explore
14. How to Reach the Place
By Foot: Located centrally at Piazza Carlo Alberto, easily walkable from Piazza Castello
By Metro: Porta Nuova is the nearest metro stop (10-minute walk)
By Tram: Tram lines 4 and 15 serve the area
By Bus: Several routes stop at Piazza Carlo Alberto or Via Po
By Taxi: 5–10 minute ride from major city stations
15. Nearby Attractions to Combine for the Visit
- Museo Egizio – World-famous Egyptian museum, 2-minute walk
- Palazzo Carignano – Explore the exterior and architectural details
- Palazzo Madama – Art and history in a UNESCO-listed building
- Piazza Castello – Central square with cafes and street life
- Mole Antonelliana – Panoramic views and the National Cinema Museum