Villareggia
Hello friends! Today I want to talk to you about Turin, an Italian city full of history and culture. Turin is the fourth largest municipality in Italy by population with 842,472 inhabitants, and is the capital of the Piedmont region and the Metropolitan City of Turin. This city is the heart of a metropolitan area of about 1.7 million inhabitants. Turin is rich in cultural treasures, art, tourism, science and education.
The history of Turin
Foundation and transformation into a Roman colony
The city of Turin has a two-thousand-year history. It was probably founded near its current location, around the 3rd century BC, by the Taurini, a Celtic tribe. Subsequently, the city was transformed into a Roman colony by Augustus under the name "Iulia Augusta Taurinorum" in the 1st century BC.
Ostrogothic rule and the Duchy of Turin
After the Ostrogothic rule, Turin became the capital of an important Duchy. Later, it became the capital of the Marquisate of Turin and then passed under the lordship of the House of Savoy in the 11th century.
The capital of the Kingdom of Sardinia and the Kingdom of Italy
In 1563 Turin became the capital of the Duchy of Savoy. In 1720, it became the capital of the Kingdom of Sardinia (1720-1861), and subsequently, was the first Capital (city) of the Kingdom of Italy (1861-1946) (from 1861 to 1865).
International events
Turin has hosted important international events such as the Turin International Exposition in 1911, the XX Winter Olympic Games in 2006, the ATP Finals from 2021 (until at least 2025) and the Eurovision Song Contest 2022.
The treasures of Turin
UNESCO-protected assets
The territory of Turin is rich in cultural treasures, including some palaces and areas belonging to the circuit of the Piedmontese Savoy residences (world heritage) and the area of the Po hills (biosphere reserve).
The automotive industry
Turin is the hub of the Italian automotive industry. Some of the most important automotive manufacturing companies were actually born in Turin. Turin also has an important role in the information technology sector.
The flavors of Turin
Among the products that symbolize "Made in Italy" we find espresso coffee, vermouth, gianduiotto and breadsticks. In addition, Turin is famous for enogastronomy, with a great variety of traditional dishes.
Fashion and industrial design
Turin is an important center for fashion and industrial design. The city has a centuries-old tradition in the textile sector, which has given rise to some of the most famous clothing brands in the world.
Education and culture
Turin is one of the major cultural and educational hubs of Italy. The city is home to important universities, such as the University of Turin, the Polytechnic University of Turin and the Accademia Albertina di Belle Arti.
Physical geography
The territory
Turin is located in the plain delimited by the Stura di Lanzo, Sangone and Po rivers. The city is located in front of the mouth of some alpine valleys: Val di Susa, Valli di Lanzo and Val Sangone.
The strategic position
Turin's position makes it a reference point for the economy and commerce, both nationally and internationally. In fact, Turin has become a global city in the 'Gamma' category, thanks to its constant growth in international importance.
I hope this brief overview has given you a glimpse of Turin and its history. Personally, I find this city a truly special place, a perfect mix of culture, history and innovation. If you have the opportunity, I recommend visiting it!