Complete Guide to Discovering Must-See Castles in Piedmont #1
Today I will talk about the most beautiful castles in Piedmont that you absolutely must not miss! And the best part is, they are all easily reachable from Cascina Facelli!
Think about it…a day exploring these breathtaking beauties and then peace and tranquility, in the evening, back at Cascina Facelli: with a fresh aperitif by the pool in summer and spring or enjoying the foliage view in autumn, in the deafening silence of the birds!
Let’s begin!
Racconigi Castle
Originally a medieval fortress, it was transformed in the 17th century into the summer residence of the royal House of Savoy.
Designed by prominent architects such as Guarino Guarini and Carlo Emanuele III, it features Baroque and Neoclassical elements. Among the most notable rooms are the Hercules Hall, the Diana Room, and the Chinese Apartment.
The park, designed by Xavier Kurten, is an extraordinary example of an English garden, with a large lake, historic greenhouses, a neoclassical temple, and a farmhouse.
The royal stables are a must-see! They host a collection of carriages and are open to visitors.
It is famous for being home to white storks, which nest here; you might be lucky enough to see them!
Events
The castle hosts a variety of cultural and recreational events throughout the year. Here are some of the main events and their indicative dates:
Festival of Green and Landscape (Spring)
An event dedicated to botany and gardening, featuring exhibitions of rare plants, flowers, and gardening equipment. Includes workshops and guided tours of the park.
Night of Museums (May)
Special evening opening of the castle with guided tours, theatrical performances, and concerts.
Historical Reenactments (June and September)
Events that recreate significant historical moments related to the House of Savoy, with period costumes, parades, and medieval games.
Beer Festival (Summer)
A festival dedicated to craft beer with tastings, live music, and food stalls.
Classical Music Festival (July)
Classical music concerts performed by internationally renowned orchestras and soloists in the picturesque setting of the castle park.
Christmas Markets (December)
Traditional markets featuring local crafts, culinary specialties, and Christmas decorations. The castle also hosts events for children, such as Santa’s house.
Tour Operators
Cuneo Alps
Description: They offer guided tours of the castle and its gardens with expert guides who explain the history and architecture of the place.
Website: Cuneo Alps
Somewhere Tours & Events
Description: They offer customized and themed tours, including evening visits and special events at the castle.
Website: Somewhere Tours
Rivoli Castle
Rivoli Castle, located on the hill of Rivoli, west of Turin, has medieval origins. It was built in the 9th century and later renovated and expanded in various phases. In the 17th century, it was transformed into one of the Savoy residences by Vittorio Amedeo II, who commissioned architect Filippo Juvarra to complete the works. However, Juvarra’s project remained unfinished, leaving the castle with a curious combination of architectural styles that you must absolutely admire!
Since 1984, the castle has housed the Rivoli Museum of Contemporary Art, one of the most important in Italy. The permanent collections and temporary exhibitions feature works by internationally renowned artists.
Some rooms in the castle have been restored to show their historical interiors, allowing you to appreciate both ancient architecture and modern art.
The park surrounding the castle offers panoramic views of the city of Turin and the Alps—a magnificent spectacle!
Events
Rivoli Castle hosts cultural events throughout the year, including art exhibitions, performances, and educational activities.
Temporary Exhibitions of Contemporary Art (Year-round)
The museum regularly organizes temporary exhibitions showcasing works by emerging and established contemporary artists. Each exhibition has a variable duration, and it is advisable to check the official website for specific dates.
Night of Museums (May)
Special evening opening of the museum with guided tours, artistic performances, and light installations.
Summer at the Castle (June – September)
A summer program that includes open-air concerts, cinema under the stars, workshops for children, and family activities in the castle park.
Contemporary Art Fair (Autumn)
An event that attracts gallery owners, collectors, and artists from all over the world, featuring exhibitions and sales of contemporary art.
Educational Events and Workshops (Year-round)
The castle organizes workshops and artistic labs for children and adults, conferences, and seminars on contemporary art and the history of the castle.
Tour Operators
Gran Tour Torino
Description: Specializing in guided tours in Turin and its surroundings, they offer excursions to Rivoli Castle with expert guides who explain the history and art of the museum.
Website: Gran Tour Torino
Cultura e Viaggi
Description: They organize cultural visits to numerous Piedmontese sites, including Rivoli Castle, with a focus on contemporary art.
Website: Cultura e Viaggi
Guide Bogianen
Description: A group of local tourist guides offering guided tours in Turin and its surroundings, including excursions to Rivoli Castle.
Website: Guide Bogianen
Contact Information
Official Website: Rivoli Castle
Address: Piazza Mafalda di Savoia, 10098 Rivoli TO, Italy
Phone: +39 011 956 5222
Fénis Castle
Fénis Castle, located in the Aosta Valley (but considered a Piedmontese cultural heritage), is one of Italy’s best-preserved and most fascinating medieval castles. Built in the 13th century and expanded in the 14th and 15th centuries by the Challant family, the castle had no defensive purposes but served as an administrative headquarters and prestigious residence. It features an imposing pentagonal structure with corner towers and double walls, as well as elegant interior decorations.
The Council Hall hosts a series of frescoes painted by Giacomo Jaquerio, depicting scenes of knights and saints. The castle’s chapel is decorated with Gothic frescoes.
The inner courtyard features a semicircular wooden staircase and frescoed loggias overlooking the courtyard.
Inside the castle, you will find the Museum of Valdostan Furniture, showcasing a collection of traditional furniture and furnishings.
Events
Medieval Reenactments (Spring and Summer)
Events that bring the medieval atmosphere to life with tournaments, costume parades, demonstrations of ancient crafts, and medieval games.
Fairytale Festival (Summer)
An event dedicated to children, with theatrical performances, creative workshops, and animated readings inside the castle and in the courtyard.
European Heritage Days (September)
On the occasion of the European Heritage Days, the castle organizes special guided tours, conferences, and educational activities for families.
Christmas at the Castle (December)
Christmas markets with local crafts, culinary specialties, and Christmas entertainment for children. The castle is decorated with lights and Christmas ornaments, creating an enchanted atmosphere.
Temporary Exhibitions (Year-round)
Temporary exhibitions on various themes, from medieval art to local history, organized within the castle rooms.
Tour Operators
Guides de la Vallée d’Aoste
Description: They offer guided tours of the castle with expert guides who tell the history and legends of the place.
Website: Guides de la Vallée d’Aoste
Love VDA
Description: They propose cultural itineraries in the Aosta Valley, including visits to Fénis Castle and other historical sites in the region.
Website: Love VDA
Contact Information
Official Website: Fénis Castle
Address: Località Chez Sapin, 1, 11020 Fénis AO, Italy
Phone: +39 0165 764263