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TurinLabelled as the Italian gateway to the Alps, the northeastern city of Turin is crammed full of beautiful buildings and fascinating museums. The city also has a reputation for fine cuisine, and is particularly noted for producing some of Italy’s best coffee and chocolate. Thousands of people are drawn to Turin every year to visit the city’s most famous attraction, the Shroud of Turin. This has divided opinion for decades and still attracts equal numbers of believers and sceptics alike. The Shroud is stored in the city’s 15th century Duomo. The Duomo itself is well worth a visit and features some magnificent artwork and architectural design. Anyone looking for more in-depth information should head to the Museum of the Holy Shroud (Museo della Sindone). Castle Square (Piazza Castello) is located in the city centre and houses two grand former palaces, the Palazzo Reale and the Palazzo Madama. It is very rewarding to spend time exploring the buildings or simply watching the city go by from one of the many benches scattered around the square.One of the most popular attractions in Turin is the Egyptian Museum (Museo Egizio). It is considered to have the best collection of Egyptian artefacts outside of Cairo. The museum features reconstructions of ancient burial chambers as well the expected number of mummies. The area around Turin offers many interesting attractions within a short drive of the city. For stunning views of the city and the Alps, head to the spectacular Basilica di Superga, a stunning church 75 metres high. Also close to the city is the beautiful Stupinigi Palace. Alternatively, heading out into the countryside and exploring the Piedmont region is equally rewarding. Visitors driving between the city centre and the airport should have little trouble as Turin International Airport is located only 16kms from the city and is well signposted. Alternatively there are direct bus and train links to and from the airport and city centre. |