Garzigliana
Hi friends! Today I want to tell you about Turin, a special city in the Piedmont region, Italy. Although it is not the largest city in our country, with its 842,472 inhabitants, it is the fourth most populous Italian municipality and the third most complex in terms of economy and industrial production. Turin is also famous for its two thousand year history and for having been the first capital of the Kingdom of Italy.
The history of Turin
Foundation and Roman colony
Turin was founded about 2200 years ago by the Taurini, a Celtic tribe who lived in the area. The city was called "Taurasia" in honor of the tribe, and later "Augusta Taurinorum" when it was transformed into a Roman colony by Augustus in the 1st century BC.
Duchy of Turin and House of Savoy
After the Gothic period, Turin became the capital of the Duchy of Turin, an autonomous region under the dominion of the ruling House of Savoy. In 1563, the city officially became the capital of the duchy, and then of the Kingdom of Sardinia (1720-1861).
First capital of the Kingdom of Italy
Turin was the first capital of the newborn Kingdom of Italy from 1861 to 1865. This city played an important role in the Italian Risorgimento and saw the birth of some of the symbols of "Made in Italy" such as vermouth, gianduiotto chocolate, breadsticks, and espresso coffee.
Geographic description of Turin
Territory
Turin is located in the plain delimited by the rivers Stura di Lanzo, Sangone, and Po. The city is surrounded by some of the most beautiful Alpine valleys such as the Val di Susa, the Valli di Lanzo, and Val Sangone. The Po river plays a fundamental role in the city, crossing it from south to north.
Tourist attractions
Turin has many tourist attractions and is known for the beauty and importance of its palaces and monuments. Turin has two UNESCO protected sites: some palaces and areas belonging to the circuit of the Savoy Residences in Piedmont that are a World Heritage Site and the Po hills area that is a biosphere reserve.
Mole Antonelliana
The Mole Antonelliana in Turin is a famous 168-meter high construction. Initially designed as a synagogue, it was later converted into a cinema museum. The Mole Antonelliana is one of the most important symbols of Turin and is located in the heart of the city.
Piazza Castello
Piazza Castello is the central square of Turin and the beating heart of the city. Here are located the Palazzo Madama, the Castello di Torino, and the Chapel of the Shroud.
Economy and culture in Turin
Economy
Turin is one of the major poles of the Italian economy, with an important automotive industry and a flourishing activity in the field of publishing, banking and insurance, information technology, and cinema.
Culture
Turin is also an important cultural center, with many universities, museums, and art galleries. The city is famous for industrial design, fashion, and artificial intelligence.
Events
Turin hosts many important events every year. Among these are the ATP Finals, the Eurovision Song Contest 2022, and the Carnival of Turin celebrations.
In summary, Turin is a unique and fascinating city with a long and rich history. With a great cultural and tourist offer, it's no wonder Turin is considered one of the most important cities in Italy. Take the time to visit it, you won't regret it!
