Pinacoteca Giovanni e Marella Agnelli

Overview

The Pinacoteca Giovanni e Marella Agnelli is a sleek art gallery designed by Renzo Piano, perched atop the Lingotto building like a transparent jewel box. It displays 25 masterworks from the private collection of FIAT patriarch Gianni Agnelli and his wife Marella, alongside rotating temporary exhibitions.

Highlights

• Matisse and Picasso: Six paintings each by Matisse and Picasso form the core of the permanent collection.
• Canova's Dancer: A luminous marble sculpture by Antonio Canova — one of the gallery's most beloved pieces.
• Renzo Piano's 'scrigno': The gallery structure itself, a suspended glass box Piano called his 'treasure chest,' offers views over Turin's rooftops.

History

Gianni Agnelli began collecting art in the 1950s, guided by his friendship with collectors and dealers. After his death in 2003, the family foundation opened this gallery in 2002 (the building was completed shortly before his passing) to share the collection publicly. Temporary exhibitions complement the permanent 25 works.

Visitor Tips

• Small but exquisite: Allow about an hour — the quality-to-quantity ratio is exceptional.
• Rooftop: From the gallery, you can sometimes access the Lingotto rooftop test track.
• Duration: 45–60 minutes.