Castle of Moncalieri, Medieval castle and national museum in Moncalieri, Italy
The Castle of Moncalieri sits on a hilltop near Turin with four square towers at its corners and a horseshoe-shaped plan that overlooks the Po River. Inside, the building contains lavishly furnished royal halls, a picture gallery, and rooms spanning multiple periods of architecture and decoration.
Thomas I of Savoy had the fortress built in the 12th century to defend and control his territory. In the 17th century it transformed into a royal residence under Yolanda of Valois, becoming a symbol of the House of Savoy's power.
The rooms here display how the House of Savoy lived, with furniture, paintings, and objects from different periods on view. Visitors can walk through spaces that reveal the tastes and daily habits of the royal family.
The castle is open to visitors on specific days, and it is wise to check current hours in advance and arrange visits ahead of time. The Italian gardens surrounding the building can also be explored and offer space for walking, especially on nice weather days.
The Carabinieri barracks has occupied much of the castle since 1921, using portions of the fortress for its operations. This split use means history and active military duty coexist within the same walls, adding an unexpected layer to the visitor experience.
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