San Carlo Borromeo, Turin

San Carlo Borromeo is a baroque church on Piazza San Carlo in Turin, defined by symmetrical architecture, a central nave, and elaborate marble altars. The ornate facade was completed in 1834 and dominates the appearance of the square.

Construction began in 1619 under Charles Emmanuel I of Savoy and was initially completed in 1625, yet the building underwent major renovations across the following centuries. These changes transformed it from its original form into the ornate baroque structure visitors see today.

The church takes its name from Saint Charles Borromeo, a revered Milan bishop whose devotion runs deep in Turin's religious life. The marble altars and religious artworks inside reflect how locals connect with this saint through the space.

The church welcomes visitors daily and is best explored outside of religious services, when you can examine the architecture and artworks without interruption. Check ahead on opening hours, as these can shift depending on masses and special events throughout the week.

This church forms an architectural pair with Santa Cristina, an identical church standing at the opposite end of the square, creating the symmetry Turin's planners intended. This double design was a 17th-century approach to building a balanced and harmonious public space.