Royal Library of Turin

The Royal Library of Turin is a conservation library located within the Royal Palace that houses over 200,000 volumes of varied materials. The collection includes ancient manuscripts, engravings, and illuminated texts that form the foundation of its holdings.

The library was established in 1839 by King Charles Albert as a way to enhance the cultural standing of the Kingdom of Sardinia. It originated from a desire to safeguard and make accessible the valuable collections gathered by the House of Savoy.

The library serves as a gathering place for scholars and researchers drawn to its holdings of rare manuscripts and historical documents. It functions as a living repository where people engage directly with centuries-old materials that shape understanding of Italian intellectual traditions.

The reading room operates on a schedule that varies by day of the week, with weekdays offering longer hours than weekends. Plan your visit accordingly, as hours change depending on when you intend to go.

The collection holds thirteen drawings by Leonardo da Vinci, including his presumed self-portrait and the notable Codex on the Flight of Birds manuscript. These works rank among the most valuable and sought-after pieces in the entire holdings.

Location: Turin

Inception: 1839

Founders: Carlo Alberto I of Sardinia

Part of: Residences of the Royal House of Savoy, Musei reali di Torino

Address: piazza Castello, 191 - 10122 Torino

Phone: +3901119211630

Email: mr-to.bibliotecareale@cultura.gov.it

Website: https://museireali.beniculturali.it/biblioteca-reale

GPS coordinates: 45.07285,7.68635

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:46