Palatine  Towers​

​By Dion Protani
Latest update: 26 February 2022
The Palatine Towers in Turin are also known as the Porta Palatina, a Roman city gate constructed in the first century BC. Situated in the centre of the modern city close to Turin Cathedral, the original Latin name was Porta Principalis Dextra (Main Gate on the Right). 

​The gate's two towers reach to a height in excess of 30 metres and are free to visit, located on a pedestrianised street by a small park. 
Related links
The Palatine Towers, known as "Torri Palatine" in Italian, are two medieval towers located in Turin, Italy. These towers are an important historical and architectural landmark, representing the city's medieval past.

History: The Palatine Towers were constructed in the 15th century as part of the city's defensive system. Turin was a strategically important city, and these towers were built to protect its gates and the main entrance to the city.

The towers were part of the Palatine Gate, a large Roman gate that was incorporated into the medieval walls of Turin. The gate and towers served as a significant entry point to the city and were an essential part of its fortifications.

Tourist Information: The Palatine Towers are a popular tourist attraction in Turin, offering visitors a glimpse into the city's medieval history. Here's what you can expect when visiting the towers:

  • Architecture: The Palatine Towers are constructed of brick and have a distinct medieval architectural style. They are characterized by their cylindrical shape and crenelated battlements at the top.
  • Palatine Gate: The towers are connected to the Palatine Gate, a well-preserved ancient Roman gate that was originally constructed in the 1st century AD. The Roman gate served as the city's main entrance during antiquity.
  • Archaeological Park: The area around the Palatine Towers has been converted into an archaeological park, offering visitors the opportunity to explore the towers, the gate, and the surrounding medieval walls.
  • Views: Visitors can climb to the top of the towers for stunning panoramic views of Turin and the surrounding areas.
  • Accessibility: The Palatine Towers are located in the city center of Turin and are easily accessible on foot or by public transportation.
  • Museo delle Antichità Egizie: The Egyptian Museum of Turin (Museo delle Antichità Egizie) is located nearby and is one of the most significant museums of ancient Egyptian artifacts in the world. It is a must-visit attraction for history and archaeology enthusiasts.
  • Guided Tours: Guided tours of the Palatine Towers and the archaeological park are available, providing in-depth information about the history and significance of the site.
  • Opening Hours and Admission: The towers are open to the public during regular opening hours, and there is a small admission fee to enter the site.

Visiting the Palatine Towers offers a unique opportunity to experience Turin's medieval heritage and to appreciate the city's historical significance. The combination of ancient Roman and medieval architecture makes this site a captivating destination for history lovers and travelers interested in exploring Italy's rich cultural past.
City: Turin

Province: Metropolitan City of Turin

Region: Piedmont

Built: 1st century BC

Height: 30 metres
Close by: Turin Cathedral, Royal Palace of Turin, Palazzo Madama
Recommended accommodation: Turin Palace Hotel

SITE SEARCH

If you want to find a page quickly and you're not sure where to look you can use the Site Search box below and it'll point you in the right direction. 

YOUR COMPLETE GUIDE TO ITALY

Italy Review is an independent guide to Italy, showcasing the very best that the country has to offer. Throughout the three thousand pages of the website you'll find comprehensive tourist information, opinion and original photos.

​Alongside the major tourist destinations that you've already heard of, there are thousands of others that may come as a surprise with the intention of the website to provide inspiration for your future trips to the country. 

The photos and descriptions on the website are all my own work and are the fruit of my extensive travels around the country. I've visited every place that's listed on the website which means I'm able to give useful advice for first-time visitors. 

​You can keep in touch with the latest developments in Italy, particularly important at the moment at the time of the pandemic, via my Italy Review Blog for which you'll find links below to the Facebook and Twitter pages. 

If you'd just like to start your exploration of Italy with some ideas of places to go then I'd recommend starting at the highlighted must see Italy page.  Or using the grid to your right you can click a photo to enter  the main menus.                 
Booking.com

THE ITALY REVIEW NETWORK SISTER SITES:

​All photos and images on the site that are marked with the © copyright symbol or with the Italy Review series logos are the property of Italy Review and must not be used elsewhere without prior permission. All written content on the website is also the property of Italy Review and its use is strictly limited to this website alone.