I’ve recently written about some of the other Savoia family estates (Le Residenze Reali Sabaude) in Piemonte, including Palazzo Madama and La Venaria Reale. Today, I’ll tell you everything you need to know before you go to Castello di Moncalieri.
What is Castello di Moncalieri?
The Savoia family had many residences throughout Turin and the region of Piemonte, of which the Castello di Moncalieri is one of the oldest. Located just south of the city, the castle makes up part of the “Crown of Delights,” or estates surrounding Turin, similar to La Venaria Reale. The castle was built in the 13th century and expanded throughout the years. During the 17th century, Christine of France (who famously helped to refurbish Palazzo Madama) helped to renovate the building. Although it was temporarily a military installment during the French occupation, it became a royal residence once more in the late 1800s. It was a favored residence of Vittorio Emmanuele, the first king of the unified Italy.
It currently serves as a cultural heritage museum and the headquarters for the Piemontese Regiment of carabinieri. During the tour, you can see the royal apartments, including various bedrooms, sitting rooms, entertaining rooms, dining rooms, a chapel, and the aftermath of a 2008 fire. The website is linked here if you want to learn more, although you will learn about the entire history during the tour.
Where is it?
Castello di Moncalieri is located in Moncalieri, Piemonte, about 15 minutes by train from Porta Susa in Turin. Moncalieri is slightly to the south of Turin, past Lingotto, and easily reachable by train from either the Porta Susa or Lingotto stations. From Porta Susa, it costs 2.80 Euros for a one way ticket. Be careful to select the Moncalieri station, not Moncalieri Sangone.
The castle is about a 10-15 minute walk from the station, located in Piazza Baden Baden. There are some slight upward hills on the walk, but overall, it is easy to get from the station to the entrance. Make sure to choose the right entrance. It is the door located directly behind the main square, where there was a weekend market. When we went, it was not marked super clearly. If you go further to the left, where there is a bigger gate, you will find the entrance to the caribinieri (police) quarters. This obviously isn’t the right one, and you can’t access the castle from there.
When should you go?
The castle is open from 10-6 Friday through Sunday. It is closed during the week. You should book the tour ahead of time, as that is the only way you can tour the castle.
This year, for the Christmas season, there are several nativity scenes sprinkled throughout the palace, which I found to be a nice touch. There were not gardens shown during the tour, so the season during which you visit doesn’t have much bearing on your experience–other than weather preferences.
If you go in winter, I recommend going earlier in the day, when it is warmer. They do not let you enter until the prior tour has concluded. If a tour finishes a bit past the hour, the front office is not big enough for many people, so you will have to wait outside. It was very cold when we went, and we had to wait for about ten minutes, so I would recommend going earlier!
How much does it cost?
Regular price tickets cost five Euros per person. For under 18s, it costs three. For holders of the abbonamento musei, it is free. You can check here for more information.
Important details about touring Castello di Moncalieri
As aforementioned, you must call ahead and book your tour. There was some confusion on this, as when a friend called, they told him it was recommended, but when we arrived, they said that it was mandatory and we had to wait until the next tour.
During the tour, there may be a policeman who accompanies your group. Part of the castle serves as the headquarters for the Piemontese Regiment of carabinieri (policemen), so there is a strong presence around the building. Don’t be surprised if one tags along!
Our guide was very knowledgeable about Castello di Moncalieri and its history. Be sure to ask for their photography rules at the beginning of the tour to be safe. The tour will last around an hour, so you don’t have to budget too much time. Afterwards, you can check out the city, grab something to eat, and then head back into Turin.
A final word
If you’re interested in history, culture, or the region of Piemonte, this is an excellent, almost hidden choice. Be sure to book in advance, and enjoy the tour!
