Palazzo Madama

Overview

Palazzo Madama encapsulates 2,000 years of Turin's history: Roman gate, medieval fortress, baroque palace, and first Italian Senate. Today it houses the Museo Civico d'Arte Antica, with collections spanning Roman mosaics to Baroque painting.

Highlights

• Juvarra's facade: Filippo Juvarra's monumental 1721 white-stone facade is considered one of Italy's finest baroque compositions.
• Medieval courtyard: The original 13th-century castle core with its towers and defensive walls.
• Antonello da Messina: The museum's star painting, the Portrait of a Man, is one of the Renaissance's most penetrating portraits.

History

The building incorporates the foundations of the eastern Roman gate (Porta Decumana). It was transformed into a castle in the 13th century, then remodelled as a residence for the two 'Madame Reali' — Christine Marie and Maria Giovanna Battista of Savoy — in the 17th century. Juvarra added the grandiose staircase and facade in 1718–21.

Visitor Tips

• Tower panorama: Climb the medieval tower for an unexpected city view.
• Ground floor cafe: The elegant café under baroque vaults is a lovely stop.
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours.