The Palazzina di Caccia di Stupinigi is the most theatrical of the Savoy residences around Turin. It was designed in the early eighteenth century by Filippo Juvarra, the architect who also created the Basilica di Superga, as a hunting lodge for the House of Savoy, and it was built to impress as much as to shelter. A bronze stag stands on the central dome, and the building spreads out in wings like the arms of a great cross around an oval central salon with frescoed walls and a ceiling that seems to rise forever. Rooms are filled with painted ceilings, carved furniture, mirrors and decorative arts, and in the grounds are lawns and avenues that were once the setting for royal hunts. Like the Savoy residences in the centre and at Venaria, Stupinigi belongs to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Residences of the Royal House of Savoy. The guided tour linked here takes visitors through the main apartments.
How it works
Stupinigi lies south-west of Turin, at the edge of the city, and is reached by bus or tram and a short walk, or by car or taxi. Visits to the interior are usually timed or guided, and rooms may be closed from time to time, so check the details on the ticket page. The palace is closed on one day each week, and the park has its own opening pattern.
What you see
The central salon is the high point, an oval room with trompe-l’oeil painting and balconies that make it feel like a theatre. Around it are the apartments of the king and queen, rooms painted with hunting scenes and a collection of furniture that includes some fine eighteenth-century pieces. The building also houses a museum of art and furnishings, and the wings give long views across the park.
Making the most of it
Allow two hours for the interior and more if you want to walk in the park, which is large and open. It is quieter than the Reggia di Venaria and suits visitors who like baroque architecture without the crowds. Combine it with a morning at the Egyptian Museum or an afternoon at Venaria on a Savoy-themed itinerary, and wear comfortable shoes for the gravel paths.
What to expect
The experience
A guided tour through the main apartments and the grand oval salon of a baroque hunting lodge.
Best time
A dry weekday, when the palace is quiet and the park is pleasant to walk in.
How long
About two hours for the tour, longer with time in the park.
Tips
Check the weekly closing day and the language of the tour before you go, and wear shoes suited to gravel paths.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Lovers of baroque architecture, history buffs and anyone who wants a quieter Savoy palace.
- Families
- Good for older children who enjoy grand rooms, with room to run in the park afterwards.
- Couples
- A romantic, theatrical building with space and calm.
- Pair with
- The Reggia di Venaria on another day, or Palazzo Madama in the centre.
- Time needed
- Two to three hours.
Good questions
Who designed the Palazzina di Caccia di Stupinigi?+
Filippo Juvarra, who also designed the Basilica di Superga, built it in the early eighteenth century as a royal hunting lodge.
Is Stupinigi part of the UNESCO site?+
Yes, it is one of the Residences of the Royal House of Savoy that make up the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
How do I get there from Turin?+
It lies south-west of the city, and can be reached by public transport and a short walk, or by taxi or car.
Is it busy?+
It is usually quieter than Venaria or the Royal Palace, especially on weekdays.
Can I walk in the park?+
Yes, the grounds are large and open, though the park may have its own opening pattern.
