I have something very special to share with you! Last month I took myself on a solo trip to a location I’ve been dreaming about for years: The Palace of Venaria Reale just outside Turin, Italy. La Venaria Reale is a former royal residence of the House of Savoy, dating back to the mid 17th century. This architectural masterpiece has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Although it is a vast complex with numerous museums, buildings, massive gardens and stables, I focused my visit on the breathtaking Galleria Grande, one of the finest examples of baroque architecture in the world.
I put together a video for you, below, to show in some way the grandeur of this marvelous structure.
Exquisite details cover every surface – so much so that it is a challenge to take them all in.
Since the Galleria has full length windows on both sides, the light is luminous and constantly changing in direction and color temperature, creating glowing reflections on the checkered marble floor and modifying the shades of the pastel ceiling.
The Palace is surrounded by extensive formal gardens which include a cherry orchard. I was fortunate to be there just before peak bloom this year to see the Accolade cherry trees which have inspired the annual Cherry Festival held on the grounds.
Below is the expansive piazza where the Reggia (Palace) is located. The long building on the right houses the Galleria Grande.
The pale yellow building on the left (below) is the hotel I stayed in. So, I literally walked out the door and into the Reggia. So convenient, especially as I booked the earliest possible entry ticket (as I always do).
Another view of the part of the Reggia complex of buildings.
This is the main street in the Venaria Reale area, a pedestrian walkway of restaurants and small shops. It was off season so not very crowded (or hot, thankfully!) The large Piazza is directly behind me here.
If Torino (Turin) is on your list, do add a visit to Reggia di Venaria. I am so impressed by and grateful to the staff and Palace organization for making it possible for the public to tour this informative and gorgeous historical wonder. Not shown here is the rest of this fascinating and beautifully presented museum. Unfortunately, I had to cut my visit short due to train cancellations (Paris strikes). It will be well worth a return trip!
Reggia di Venaria Reale
Piazza Della Repubblica 4
Venaria Reale, Torino, Italy
With love,
Amazing place and really beautiful photos!!!
Thank you, David! It was a privilege to see it!
This photography takes one’s breath away it is so stunning.
A magnificent , vicarious journey!
Thank you, Ellen! It was a spectacular place to photograph!
so lovely and breathtaking
Hi again, Huda!
It’s truly one of the most beautiful places I’ve been to in the world. I feel very lucky to have seen it.
My best to you,
Georgianna
Wow, such a beautiful place! I had no idea it existed and will now go and do a bit of research into its history. Thank you so much for sharing. As always, your photography is really lovely.
Hi Susan! Thank you so much! I only discovered the Palace myself a few years ago and had been a bit obsessed with visiting ever since. It has a complex history which I hope you will find interesting. My best, Georgianna
Stunning! The video was especially atmospheric. Turin was already on my to-visit list, but this is helping bump it up the list!
Hi, Juliette! I’m really happy that you enjoyed the video. It was tricky to shoot with staff walking in and out all the time, even though I got there very early. :)
I only had one day in Turin due to French train strikes but I understand there is much to see in the historic district so will definitely plan a return trip. I hope you can visit soon! xx
Absolutely beautiful photos Georgianna! Exquisite details! Thank you so much for sharing. I hope I get to visit Palace Venaria someday.
Thank you, Olive! I’m so pleased that you enjoyed seeing it. I would love it if you are able to visit Venaria one day. :)
All my best, G
Wow! Just wow!
Thank you so much, Linda!