10 unusual things to see (and do) in Turin

Nestled between the stunning Alps and picturesque vineyard hills of Piedmont in Northern Italy, Turin is often overlooked by mainstream travel itineraries. However, Italy's first capital and home of royal residences has an artsy and creative side that goes beyond cars and football. Take a peek at these ten unusual spots, and remember to keep your eyes open to spot other hidden gems during your next stroll in the city. You can save this map and access many more travel tips on the Thatch app - it's free!

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Lamarmora Garden

@ireneandreoni

If you are arriving in Turin by train, you'll probably pass by this small but cute little garden on your way to the city center. The garden was built in 1863 and is home to art installations by Italian gardener-artist Rodolfo Marasciuolo. Sit on the bench next to the abandoned suitcase, spot the other white figures that make a delicate love story come to life, or simply cool off in the shade during hot summer days.

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Lovers' Bench

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Probably the most romantic spot in Turin, you'll find the famous "Streetlights in love" (Lampioni innamorati) in the Rocky Garden (Giardino Roccioso) inside the iconic Valentino Park. Soak in the peace of the little creek, count how many squirrels you can see, and don't forget to take a pic with your loved one! ❤️ Tip: The colors of Valentino Park truly shine in Spring and Fall, so I'd recommend planning your visit accordingly. Late March to late May and late September to early November are the best times of the year to enjoy the colorful trees and chill on the riverbank.

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The "Polenta Slice" Building

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A few steps away from Turin's most famous landmark, the Mole Antonelliana, you can't miss Turin's most bizarre building. As the name suggests, this building (whose real name is "Casa Scaccabarozzi") resembles a polenta slice, a typical Northern Italian dish - a thick yellow paste made from yellow or white corn flour and water. At its thinnest point, the building measures only 16 m x 5 m x 54 cm. Quite impressive! 😯

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The Pierced Building

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Don't forget to keep your nose up while you're strolling around the city center: you can't miss this historical 18th-century building with a literal piercing! No, you're not hallucinating: this art installation (named "Baci Urbani", Urban Kisses) represents the contrast between history and modernity and was meant to be temporary, but the citizens loved it so much that it's still there up to this day. On both sides of the building, you can see a few blood drops in two colors: red (the blood of the labor class) and blue (the royal blood). This duality has long been engraved in Turin's history and can be perceived up to this day.

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Leumann Village

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A few minutes' drive from the city center, this cute little village will bring you back to the late nineteenth century. The village, inhabited to this day, is a marvelous example of industrial architecture transformed into art. Make sure to polish your camera lens and capture its colorful corners!

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The Big Bear & "Before I Die" Wall

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This huge 3D art installation protruding from the walls of Teatro Colosseo has been created by Portuguese artist Bordalo II solely using recycled materials. The installation fits perfectly with the "Before I Die" wall right next to it, a huge blackboard where passers-by can write down their wishes and desires. And you, what would you write on the "Before I Die" wall?

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The Pomegranate Door

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In full Liberty style, an architectural style very popular in Turin at the end of the nineteenth century, this colorful door will bring a smile to your face even on the rainiest of days - and it makes the perfect Insta-spot 📸

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The Medieval Burg

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It might surprise you, but the Medieval Burg, in the heart of Valentino Park, is not an authentic medieval town. It was built on the occasion of the 1884 Italian General Exposition, mimicking Piedmontese late-medieval architecture. Get the most out of its fairytale atmosphere and visit the burg in the Christmas period for a trip back in time, or cool off in the shade during hot summer days. You can get your tickets and plan your visit here: https://www.borgomedievaletorino.it/en/home-en/

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Condominio 25 Verde

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This building is surely one-of-a-kind in the city: not everybody can say they sip their morning coffee on their balcony surrounded by lavish plants and climbing greens🌿 The project aimed at integrating green spaces in a residential building setting, following the idea of a habitable "urban jungle". Another similar Italian project is the "Bosco Verticale" in Milan, while the city of Singapore has been implementing for years a whole strategy for integrating natural elements within urban planning (like the CapitaGreen building).

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Cesare Lombroso Criminal Anthropology Museum

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What about a rainy day? Beside the most famous Egyptian Museum, Cinema Museum, and Automobile Museum, this small museum a few steps away from Valentino Park will send a chill down your spine. True crime lovers can find a collection of skulls, wax models, sketches, weapons, and other eerie objects. The macabre collection was put together by Italian criminologist and eugenicist Cesare Lombroso to display his famous "criminal atavism" theory: according to Lombroso, the shape and size of the skull and other body parts can determine if an individual is "destined" to be a criminal, thus making criminal behavior a genetic trait instead of the result of environmental factors. His theories have of course been challenged and dismissed, but his contribution to criminology studies has been and still is recognized all over the world to this day.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Irene Andreoni

Looking for tips and tricks to make your next trip memorable? I can help you out! Born in Italy and adopted by Germany, I'm your travel BFF for anything related to food, art, architecture, culture, and the outdoors. Sometimes, having to deal with transportation, food, accommodation, and activities - especially if you need to keep an eye on your wallet - can feel pretty overwhelming. But don't despair: strong of my first-hand experience in the hospitality world and degree in Translation with focus on Tourism Management, I have the right skills to help you plan your travels in an efficient way. I'm also a fan of DYI travelling, and I can't wait to share with you what I learned over the years. In this space, you can find some tips and inspiration for your next trip. And if you want something tailored just for you, just send me a request or click on the "Get Inspired" link - my inbox is always open 💌 ------------------------------------------- 23 countries visited (and counting) 🌎

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