Palazzo Solaro del Borgo

Did the walls of Palazzo Solaro del Borgo whisper secrets of power and prestige? Let’s uncover them together. Right here in Piazza San Carlo stands Palazzo Solaro del Borgo, also known as Palazzo Isnardi di Caraglio. It’s a historical gem with a rich past. Palazzo Solaro del Borgo first took shape between 1644 and 1656. It was built for the Marquis Francesco Havard de Senantes. The original design, by Carlo di Castellamonte, was much smaller than what we see today. It began as just three apartments. After the Marquis passed, the palace became the property of the Isnardi di Caraglio family. Around 1753, they decided to expand. They hired Benedetto Alfieri, who transformed the palace. Alfieri designed new gala apartments, salons, galleries, and that grand staircase we see. He collaborated with architect Giovanni Battista Borra and many other artists. They shaped the palace into its current Rococo style. Later, the Asinari di Bernezzo family owned it for a short time. They sold it to the Solaro del Borgo family in 1782. This marked a turning point in the history of Palazzo Solaro del Borgo. The Accademia Filarmonica bought the palace in 1838, adding another layer to its rich history. They built a magnificent concert hall inside, the Odeo, designed by Giuseppe Talucchi between 1840 and 1841. In 1771, the palace hosted a grand celebration. It was the wedding of Maria Luisa di Savoia and the Count of Provence, the future King Louis XVIII of France. The ambassador of France, who resided in the palace, hosted the event. Today, this grand palace houses the Società del Whist, a club founded by Count Cavour in 1841. Though not open for public tours, Palazzo Solaro del Borgo’s elegance remains. It stands as a testament to Turin’s rich past, a silent observer of centuries of history.