Things to Do at Palazzo Carignano

Palazzo Carignano, designed by Guarino Guarini in 1679, showcases one of Europe's most innovative Baroque facades with its undulating brick exterior that seems to flow like fabric frozen in stone. The palace houses the National Museum of Italian Unification, with adult tickets costing €10 ($11) - book the combined ticket with nearby Palazzo Madama for €15 ($16) total. This is where Italy's first king, Vittorio Emanuele II, was born in 1820, making it the birthplace of modern Italy. Inside, original 17th-century rooms preserve their historical atmosphere with creaking parquet floors that announce every footstep while the scent of aged wood and leather from ancient book bindings fills the air. The museum's highlight is the semicircular Chamber of Deputies where Italy's first parliament met - standing in this room, you can almost hear the echoes of heated debates that shaped a nation. The palace's unique architecture creates interesting acoustic effects where whispers in certain rooms carry clearly across vast spaces while other areas seem to absorb sound completely.

The palace is right in Turin's historic center, just a few minutes' walk from Via Roma and Piazza Castello. If you're coming by metro, Porta Nuova station is about a 10-minute walk away. Most of the city center buses stop nearby - the area is very well connected. If you're driving, forget about parking right there, but there are several paid lots within reasonable walking distance. Honestly, though, Turin's center is compact enough that you'll likely just walk here from wherever else you're staying or visiting.