Barolo Palace

Palazzo Barolo, also known as Palazzo Falletti di Barolo, is a magnificent example of Baroque architecture located in the heart of Turin, on Via delle Orfane. Built at the end of the 17th century according to the design of architect Gian Francesco Baroncelli, the building was commissioned by the Provana family. During the 18th century, it was renovated by architect Benedetto Alfieri, who introduced Rococo elements, giving the palace its current appearance. The history of the palace is closely linked to the Falletti di Barolo family, who lived there until the mid-19th century. Among the most famous members of the family were Marquis Tancredi and his wife Giulia Colbert di Maulévrier, remembered for their philanthropic works. Giulia, in particular, is famous for her commitment to the poor and for founding numerous social assistance institutions in Turin. Their residence became a center for charitable and cultural activities, hosting distinguished personalities such as writer Silvio Pellico, who lived in the palace for several years. The structure of the palace is imposing and fascinating. The main entrance leads to a large inner courtyard, surrounded by arcades adorned with stucco decorations and frescoes. The interiors of the palace are richly decorated with stuccoes, frescoes, and period furnishings. Among the most notable rooms are the Hall of Mirrors, the Red Room, and the Green Room. The latter contains a fresco by Luigi Morgari depicting The Wedding of Peleus and Thetis, an example of the artistic refinement of the time. One of the most characteristic elements of the palace is the grand staircase, which occupies a central position in the building, contrary to the traditional layout of seventeenth-century palaces. This richly decorated staircase leads to the upper floors, where the noble apartments are located. The decorative fittings of the noble floor, dating back to the late 17th century, include stuccoes by Pietro Somasso, paintings by Francesco Trevisani, and frescoes by the Legnani. In 1906, the south side of the palace was demolished to widen Via Corte d’Appello, an urban intervention that partially modified the original structure of the building. However, the remaining part of the palace still preserves many of the original architectural and decorative elements intact, offering a precious example of Piedmontese Baroque architecture. Today, Palazzo Barolo is home to the Opera Barolo, a foundation that continues the philanthropic activities started by the Marquises Falletti. The foundation organizes guided tours of the palace, allowing visitors to explore its magnificent rooms and learn about the history of the Falletti family and their charitable works. Additionally, the palace hosts exhibitions, cultural events, and conferences, keeping alive the spirit of patronage and cultural openness that has always characterized this place. One of the anecdotes related to Palazzo Barolo, one of the most famous, concerns Silvio Pellico. After being released from Austrian prisons, Pellico was welcomed by Giulia di Barolo, who offered him hospitality and involved him in her charitable works. Pellico lived in the palace for many years, dedicating himself to teaching in the schools founded by the marchioness and writing some of his most important works. Pellico’s room, with its original furnishings, is part of the museum’s visit itinerary, offering a glimpse into the daily life of one of the greatest Italian writers of the 19th century. Another interesting aspect of the palace is its library, which contains a rich collection of rare books and manuscripts. This library, originally created by the Falletti marquises, has been expanded over the years and today represents a valuable resource for scholars and enthusiasts of history and literature. The palace garden, although modified over the centuries, still retains its original charm. This green space, designed in Italian style, offers an oasis of tranquility in the heart of the city, with geometric flower beds, fountains, and sculptures creating a harmonious and relaxing environment.