Palazzo di Città Square, Turin
Palazzo di Citta Square located in the historical center of Turin is believed to be quite ancient. It is small, cozy and surrounded by buildings. There are several narrows streets that lead locals here – after all, this square is the most best-liked meeting spot for Turin citizens, especially for young ones. This place is secluded, quiet and fairly beautiful.
History of the square
The history of this place dates back to antiquity. The square used to lie not far from the center of the ancient town and allegedly served as Julia Augusta Taurinorum forum. In middle ages, it was turned into a marketplace. A vegetable market was set on the square giving it a new name - Piazza Delle Erbe.
In the 17th century, this square was no longer considered to be a forum, exactly when Turin became the capital of the Duchy of Savoy. By that time local authorities had finally settled here and decided to perform a massive reconstruction. Firstly, a town hall was built and then the square itself changed. In 1756 architect Benedetto Alfieri designed porticos for these already fascinating buildings.
In 1995 the square was rebuilt. Tramways were removed entirely to create a full-fledged pedestrian zone. The place was resurfaced, and remains of Roman stone pavement were found during the process.
Sights to see on Palazzo di Citta Square
There are buildings with porticos built around the perimeter of this rectangular-shaped square that create a gallery with arches and columns. All the surrounding constructions are designed in the Baroque style which truly completes its appearance and makes it aesthetically pleasing for tourists. Turin city administration and several stores can be found here as well. The square also boasts few interesting landmarks.
- Green Count Monument. It is dedicated to Count Amedeo VI, ruled in Savoy in the 14th century. The memorial was installed in the center of the square in 1853. Since then it became a place where residents usually meet.
- Palazzo Civico. It is also known as Town Hall and City Palace. Commisioned by local government and built in 1663, Palazzo Civico was designed in the Baroque style. Even though it was meant to be an administrative facility, the architect decided to construct the building so that it resembles noble palaces of the 17th century.
Various exhibitions and presentations are held on the square today. In the eastern part, there is a net with cubic lamps put between the first and second floor of the buildings. After dark, the whole place is illuminated with soft, colorful lights which looks beautiful and harmoniously.
How to get
Palazzo di Citta Square is located in the old block in Turin’s center. A narrow street called Via Palazzo di Città leads from the square. By walking down this street, you can easily get to Palazzo Madama and Royal Palace within 5 minutes. Public transportation is accessible here as well. You can catch trams that follow route 4 or buses that follow route 11, 19, 27, 51, 57, 92, N04, STAR2, W60 at Fermata Corte D'Appello stop. Besides transport mentioned above, trams that follow route seven pass through Fermata Garibaldi stop as well.
