Rivoli  Castle​

​By Dion Protani
Latest update: 4 August 2023
The Rivoli Castle is situated above the town of Rivoli in the Metropolitan City of Turin province in the northern Italian region of Piedmont. 

Built around the 9th and 10th centuries, the castle has been inscribed by UNESCO as one of their World Heritage Sites since 1997 under the Residences of the Royal House of Savoy heading. 
Places of interest nearby include the Reggia di Venaria Reale, the Sacra di San Michele and the Lago Grande di Avigliana.
Related links
Rivoli Castle, also known as Castello di Rivoli, is a magnificent historic fortress located in Rivoli, a town in the Piedmont region of northern Italy. This imposing castle has a rich history, and today, it serves as an important contemporary art museum.

History: The origins of Rivoli Castle date back to the 9th century when it was originally built as a defensive fortification to protect the surrounding territory. Over the centuries, the castle changed hands and underwent various renovations and expansions under different rulers, including the House of Savoy.

In the 17th century, Duke Charles Emmanuel II of Savoy transformed the castle into a lavish residence, adding Baroque elements to its design. The castle continued to serve as a residence for the Savoy family until the 19th century. During World War II, the castle was damaged, but it was later restored to its former glory and eventually converted into a contemporary art museum.

Architectural Features: Rivoli Castle exhibits a captivating blend of medieval and Baroque architectural styles:

  • Medieval Fortifications: The castle's original medieval features, such as thick stone walls, towers, and battlements, showcase its defensive origins.
  • Baroque Additions: The interior of the castle was transformed into an opulent residence during the Baroque period, featuring grand halls, ornate decorations, and intricate frescoes.
  • Contemporary Art Spaces: In addition to its historical architecture, the castle now houses contemporary art galleries and exhibition spaces.

Tourist Information: Visiting Rivoli Castle offers a unique experience of art and history in the Piedmont region:

  • Historical Significance: The castle's medieval origins and association with the House of Savoy provide an intriguing glimpse into the region's historical past.
  • Contemporary Art Museum: The castle's transformation into a contemporary art museum showcases a contrast between history and modernity.
  • Art Exhibitions: The museum hosts rotating exhibitions featuring works by both established and emerging contemporary artists.
  • Guided Tours: Guided tours are available, providing insights into the castle's history and its transition into an art space.
  • Panoramic Views: The castle's hilltop location offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Accessibility: Rivoli is easily accessible from Turin, making it a convenient day trip destination.
  • Local Cuisine: Travelers can enjoy Piedmontese cuisine at nearby restaurants and cafes.
Comune: Rivoli

Province: Metropolitan City of Turin

Region: Piedmont

​Built: 9th/10th century

Close by: Reggia di Venaria Reale, Sacra di San Michele

Recommended accommodation: Rivoli Hotel (4 km)
UNESCO World Heritage Site

Residences of the Royal House of Savoy

​Year: 1997

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 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.