Cascina Roccafranca

Picture a sprawling cityscape, a mosaic of modern architecture and charming old town streets. Amidst the bustle, stands Cascina Roccafranca – a captivating reminder of Turin’s rich agricultural past. While the city around it has grown and evolved, Cascina Roccafranca embodies a simpler time. Imagine you are standing in front of the cascina, its rustic charm radiating a sense of history and tranquility. Cascina Roccafranca is a historical farmhouse, its origins tracing back to the 17th century. It was originally owned by the Compagnia della Concezione, a charitable organization dedicated to supporting widows and orphans. The farmhouse belonged to the company until 1689, when it was sold to a man named Ballardi. The farmhouse was then renamed Cascina Balard and remained in Ballardi’s family for decades, a testament to its longevity and enduring presence on the land. In the early 19th century, a dramatic transformation occurred, adding a wing to the farmhouse, changing its shape to a “C” design. In the 1930s, the cascina served as a home for workers from local factories, like FIAT and Lancia. It also welcomed shepherds who arrived from the mountains during the winter.
During World War II, the farmhouse experienced some minor damage from Allied bombing raids. After the war, Cascina Roccafranca continued to evolve, transforming into the thriving community center it is today. In 2002, the city of Turin purchased the building. Driven by the goals of the European Union’s Urban 2 program, the city renovated Cascina Roccafranca and turned it into a dynamic cultural center. The cascina stands as a symbol of Turin’s urban resilience and a testament to the power of community. As you admire this gem, your mind might wander to the tales of the past – the workers seeking shelter, the farmers tending the land, and the shepherds passing through its doors. You can practically see their silhouettes, imprinted on the walls of this extraordinary farmhouse. Now, it stands as a vibrant space that fosters connections and celebrates the heritage of Turin’s past.