Piazza Solferino

Did the name Piazza Solferino ever strike you as peculiar? Here in the heart of Turin, Piazza Solferino unfolds a tale of triumph and transformation. This piazza, a long, somewhat narrow rectangle, stands as a testament to a pivotal moment in Italian history. It draws its name from the Battle of Solferino, a victory for Franco-Piedmontese forces against the Austrians during the Second Italian War of Independence in 1859. Before its association with this victory, Piazza Solferino held a vastly different identity. It was known as Piazza del Bosco, the “wood market square,” due to the bustling trade that once thrived here. Its shape was irregular, and it marked the southern edge of Turin’s historical center. In the 19th century, the piazza underwent a significant redesign, transforming into the elegant space we see today. The final design, conceived by architect Carlo Promis in 1853, gave Piazza Solferino its current form. The central flowerbeds, aligning with Via Alfieri, were a later addition, appearing in 1870. Piazza Solferino is more than just a paved expanse. It is a stage where history and art intertwine. At its center, the equestrian statue of Ferdinando di Savoia, Duke of Genoa, commands attention. Sculpted by Alfonso Balzico in 1877, the statue depicts the Duke with his sword drawn, astride his wounded horse, commemorating his valor at the Battle of Novara in 1849. Nearby, the statue of Giuseppe La Farina, a key figure in Italy’s unification, stands as a tribute to his patriotic fervor. The Fontana Angelica, with its four statues representing the four seasons, adds a touch of mythical charm to the piazza. This fountain, designed by Giovanni Riva in 1930, is a testament to a son’s love for his mother, Angelica Cugiani Bajnotti. Interestingly, Piazza Solferino is home to the Teatro Alfieri, a cultural landmark that has risen from the ashes multiple times. Destroyed by fire, bombing, and war, the theater has been faithfully rebuilt each time, embodying the city’s resilience. From the wood market of Piazza del Bosco to the grandeur of Piazza Solferino, this space has witnessed the ebb and flow of Turin’s history. As you stroll through this vibrant piazza, remember the echoes of the past and the enduring spirit of a city that continues to reinvent itself.