CASTELLO DI RACCONIGI

Founded around the 11th century as safe in the Marca di Torinothe Castle of Racconigi went from Marquises of Saluzzo at Savoy, maintaining its original fortified appearance with corner towers for a long time. Starting in the 17th century, a profound transformation began: in 1670 André Le Nôtre designed the garden when the castle was converted into a residence for the Savoie-Carignano; six years later Guarino Guarini He initiated a comprehensive restructuring programme, which was, however, destined to remain unfinished.

In 1755 work resumed under the direction of Giambattista Borra, summoned by the prince Louis of Savoy-Carignano. This intervention is responsible for the main façade pavilionsthe large entrance portico, the hall with the famous musicians' gallery, the Hall of Diana and the refined Chinese cabinets.

The current appearance of the residence was defined with the accession to the throne of Charles Albert: in the 1820 the German gardener Xavier Kurten completely redesigned the park, while Pelagius Palagi He oversaw the decoration and refurbishment of the interiors in a style that was somewhere between neoclassical and eclectic, as exemplified by the striking Etruscan Cabinet. During the same period, service buildings in the style of neo-Gothic of Greenhouses and the Margaria, intended for agricultural management of the territory.

After the capital was moved from Turin to Florence (1865) and then to Rome (1871), the castle gradually lost its central importance for the royal family, until Victor Emmanuel III did not restore it to its role as a holiday residence in the early 20th century. In 1980 the complex was purchased by Italian state.

The Castle Park is currently closed to the public.

Booking required at this link without pre-sale costs.