Turin

Once known for its reserved, austere, and sometimes stern nature, Turin has transformed into an engaging city to explore. Beyond its elegant palaces, royal residences of the House of Savoy, and noteworthy museums, such as the Egyptian Museum and the Cinema Museum located within the stunning Mole Antonelliana, Turin’s transformation is evident.

This change is embodied in a contemporary art piece by artist Richi Ferrero, located at Via delle Orfane 20. Set on the facade of the ancient Convento di Sant’Agostino (Convent of Saint Augustine) in the Roman Quadrilateral, the artwork titled ‘T’oro’ depicts a bull, the city’s symbol, forcefully emerging from the wall, symbolizing Torino’s history looking towards the future.

For art enthusiasts and the curious, an entertaining tour involves seeking out the works of gardener Rodolfo Marasciuolo, adored by the locals. His poetic creations, made from recycled materials such as streetlamps, books, and bicycles, are scattered throughout the city’s parks, streets, and squares. The thrill lies in finding them, as the artist occasionally relocates his works.

For moments of relaxation or a late afternoon aperitivo, particularly during the warmer seasons, Torino’s beautiful urban parks take centre stage. From the historic Parco del Valentino, which sits along the river at the foot of the hill, home to the 18th-century Botanical Garden, the Castle, and the Medieval Village, to the Royal Gardens situated behind the Royal Palace, where one can enjoy a pleasant stroll amidst the greenery along avenues with stunning vistas, fountains, and works of art.

A hidden gem is the lesser-known Bamboo Garden of the Vietnamese Consulate, located in a stunning Art Nouveau building in the heart of San Salvario. This vibrant corner, infused with southeast Asian flavours, hosts the Vietcaffè during the summer. Last, for a panoramic view of Torino, simply ascend the hill to the public park of Villa Genero, with its belvedere offering views of the city and the Alps.