Palazzo di Città

Standing in front of this grand building, you’ll see Palazzo di Città, more commonly known today as the Palazzo Civico, the city hall of Turin. Its history dates back to the 1470s, when the Turin city council acquired a series of buildings on this spot to house its operations. The council had been moving from building to building, taking shelter wherever it could find a temporary home. Eventually, these properties were developed into a large and impressive structure, and by the 1650s, it was decided that the Palazzo di Città needed a complete makeover. The architect Francesco Lanfranchi was given the task, and he created a building in the stunning Baroque style of the time. The construction was quite fast, and the inauguration of the Palazzo di Città was celebrated in 1663 with lavish festivities, including a spectacular fireworks display in the square. This new Palazzo di Città was considered a masterpiece, a showcase of the city’s power and prestige. While the Palazzo di Città was a splendid new home for the city administration, it was considered too small only a century later. The city was growing, and the Palazzo di Città was becoming cramped. In the 1750s, renowned architect Benedetto Alfieri was commissioned to enlarge the palazzo, adding wings on both sides and integrating the historic piazza, which had been serving as a market square for many centuries, into the design. With its elegant, symmetrical facade and expansive portico, Palazzo di Città, became an architectural icon that perfectly reflected the spirit of the 18th century. Today, the Palazzo di Città stands as a powerful reminder of Turin’s rich history and architectural brilliance. It continues to serve as the city’s nerve center, filled with the bustle of daily life and the spirit of a city that never stands still. It’s easy to imagine the people making their way to the Palazzo di Città: citizens, merchants, even royalty, all drawn to the city’s heart. The Palazzo di Città, with its imposing facade and timeless elegance, has witnessed countless stories unfold within its walls. Now, as you stand here, you are part of that story, a witness to the enduring legacy of Turin.