Parco del Valentino

Overview

Parco del Valentino is Turin's most beloved green space, stretching along the western bank of the Po for over a kilometre. Created in the 17th century around the Savoy's Castello del Valentino, it blends formal gardens, riverside promenades, and the charming Borgo Medievale replica village.

Highlights

• Riverside promenade: Shaded paths along the Po, popular with joggers, cyclists, and evening strollers.
• Botanical Garden: Founded in 1729, one of Italy's oldest, with over 5,000 plant species.
• Borgo Medievale: An elaborate full-scale reconstruction of a 15th-century Piedmontese village, built for the 1884 Italian General Exhibition.

History

The park takes its name from the church of San Valentino that once stood nearby. Emanuele Filiberto began developing the grounds in the 1560s, and the Castello del Valentino was built as a Savoy pleasure palace. The park was redesigned in English landscape style by Jean-Pierre Barillet-Deschamps in 1864.

Visitor Tips

• Morning jog: A favourite local running route — the riverside paths are flat and scenic.
• Spring visit: The botanical garden is at its best in April–May.
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours for a leisurely walk.