Torino, Italy Shows Off in 2011!

Torino (Turin) is the capital of the Piemonte (Piedmont) region in the northwest corner of Italy. Internationally famous as the home of the Shroud of Turin, which is kept in the royal chapel of the Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist, the city has many other reasons to make a visit.

1. Celebration of the 150th Anniversary of Italy’s unification. From March 17 to November 20th, Torino will greet you with Esperienza Italia, a showcase of extraordinary exhibitions and programs rich with culture, food and entertainment.

2. Art and Culture. Torino is overflowing with artistic and historical wealth. 40 museums present the best in ancient and contemporary art. Add film and music festivals and stir.

3. A Wealth of Royal Residences. The castles and palaces of the House of Savoy are transformed into museums, concert halls and exhibit spaces. 15 of the royal residences are UNESCO World Heritage sites.



4. Nature. Torino boasts miles and miles of greenery and tree-lined avenues. There are 17 city parks and a botanical garden. The Royal Gardens were designed by the same architect who designed the Versailles Gardens in France. All this against the backdrop of the Alps and the meandering Po River.

5. Sports. Torino was home to the 2006 Winter Olympics, 2009 World Air Games and 2010 World Figure Skating Championships. It is also home base for Juventus and Torino soccer teams.

6. Go dancing and stay out late. The old town district of Qadrilatero Romano offers art galleries, wine cellars, restaurants and boutiques that stay open late.

7. Wine. It’s the home of Barolo, Barbaresco, Nebbiolo, Dolcetto and Spumante. Need I say more?

8. Food. Torino is famous for its white truffles, special coffees and chocolates, agnolotti ravioli and grissini breadsticks. It’s also home to Eataly, Europe’s largest food and wine emporium. The Piedmont region gave birth to Slow Food, a now global organization dedicated to the enjoyment and preservation of local food traditions, heritage and culture.

Torino is always full of art, natural beauty, food and fun. But in 2011 it’s really something special. Learn more about what Torino has to offer by clicking here.