Castello del Valentino

Can you imagine this grand palace being a simple riverside residence? The Castello del Valentino, right here in front of us, is more than just a castle. It’s a symbol of Turin’s rich history, of the powerful House of Savoy, and the evolution of a city. From a simple, fortified dwelling to a grand palace, the castle’s history echoes the rise and fall of dynasties and the changing tides of Italian history. The name “Valentino”, first mentioned in 1275, comes from a saint called Valentine who was associated with a church nearby. The current castle, though, was transformed by Christine of France, the wife of Victor Amadeus I, in the 17th century. Christine wanted to create a maison de plaisance, a type of French country estate. So, architects Carlo and Amedeo di Castellamonte were brought in and they significantly changed the look of the castle. The old structure was doubled, the rooflines were given a French pavilion style, and towers were added. The final result is the imposing castle that you see today, overlooking the Po River. Over time, the castle became a home to the Veterinary Medicine School and even a military barracks. Then, in the mid-19th century, it became the seat of the engineering faculty of Turin. And that’s how it became a place of learning, something unexpected for a former royal residence. Today, the Castello del Valentino is still a place of study. As part of the Polytechnic University of Turin, it’s busy with students and researchers. But it’s also a place of beauty and history. Step inside and you’ll be surrounded by frescoes and elaborate stucco, reminding you of the grandeur of the past. The Castello del Valentino is an elegant reminder that the present is built on the past and that the beauty of history can continue to inspire us.