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Castle of Racconigi: A Savoy Family Jewel

Explore the Castle of Racconigi: A UNESCO site showcasing the Savoy family's history, art, and stunning Royal Park in Piedmont, Italy.

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The Castle of Racconigi, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a former royal residence of the Savoy family located in Racconigi, Italy. Originally built as a fortress in the 11th century, it evolved into a lavish palace with stunning gardens, reflecting various architectural styles and historical periods. Today, it stands as a museum, showcasing the opulence of the Savoy dynasty and offering visitors a glimpse into their private and public lives.

A brief summary to Castle of Racconigi

  • Thursday 9 am-6 pm
  • Friday 9 am-1 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-1 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-1 pm

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes to explore the extensive Royal Park, with its gardens, lake, and walking trails.
  • Check the official website for seasonal opening hours and special events, such as guided tours and cultural activities.
  • Visit the Royal Kitchen to see a well-preserved collection of cooking utensils and accessories used by the Savoy family.
  • Bring binoculars for birdwatching in the Royal Park, especially to observe the storks that nest in the area.
  • Consider visiting the nearby town of Racconigi to explore its historic center and other attractions.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Turin, take a regional train to Racconigi station. Trains depart from Torino Porta Susa every two hours, and the journey takes approximately 34 minutes, costing between €4 and €8. From the Racconigi train station, it is approximately a 13-minute walk to the Castle. Alternatively, Extra.To operates a bus from Torino - P.Za Nizza 83 to Racconigi - Stazione Ferroviaria 6 times a week. Tickets cost €5–6 and the journey takes 28 min.

  • Car

    If driving from Turin, take the A6 highway towards Savona and exit at Carmagnola. From there, follow the SR20 country road for about 10 kilometers to Racconigi. Several parking options are available near the castle, including a large free parking lot near the sports fields. Expect to pay around €0.50-€1 per hour at paid parking lots closer to the town center.

  • Walking

    From the center of Racconigi, the Castle is easily accessible by foot. From Piazza Carlo Alberto, walk northwest along Via Francesco Morosini. The castle is located approximately 5 minutes away and is visible from the town square.

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Discover more about Castle of Racconigi

The Castle of Racconigi, nestled in the town of Racconigi in the province of Cuneo, is a captivating testament to the grandeur of the House of Savoy. With origins tracing back to the 11th century, the castle began as a fortified structure before transforming into a magnificent royal residence. Over the centuries, it underwent numerous expansions and renovations, incorporating elements of Baroque, Neoclassical, and Neo-Gothic styles. The castle's history is intertwined with the Savoy-Carignano line, who acquired it in the 16th century. Key figures like Charles Albert played a significant role in shaping its present appearance, entrusting architects such as Ernesto Melano and Pelagio Palagi to enhance its structure and interiors. The castle served as a summer and autumn retreat for the Savoy family, witnessing important events such as the birth of King Umberto II in 1904 and the signing of the Treaty of Racconigi in 1909. The expansive Royal Park, encompassing approximately 170 hectares, is a highlight of the estate. Designed initially in the French style by André Le Nôtre, the park was later transformed into an English landscape garden by Xavier Kurten, featuring winding paths, a lake, and picturesque structures. The park is also home to diverse plant and animal species, including a colony of storks. Today, the Castle of Racconigi is a museum complex open to the public, offering guided tours of its lavish halls, rooms, and the Royal Kitchen. Visitors can admire the original furnishings, art collections, and the Etruscan Cabinet, while also exploring the castle's service buildings and the vast Royal Park.

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