State Archives, Turin

The State Archives is found nestled between the Royal Theatre and the Royal Gardens in a ground-breaking purpose built building (completed 1734) designed by Filippo Juvarra. Fifteen rooms over three years hold a wealth of historic documents, originally set-up by King Carlo Emanuele III as the Court Archives. It’s conception was designed to glorify the history of the Savoy dynasty, celebrating it’s military and political prowess and their role in the formation of Italy as a unified state.

Offering a fully functional archive service for nearly 300 years and now under the directorship of Dr. Marco Carassi. Major renovations and some reconstruction took place at the turn of the 20th century and in 1925 the institution acquired another building to hold the ever increasing collection, the former hospital of St. Louis.

The building features one decorated façade overlooking a courtyard and one plain façade overlooking the Royal Garden. Somewhat of an under the radar tourist attraction, upon viewing these precious historic documents beautifully presented, one can become immersed in the history of the city and it’s dignitaries. The archive showcases texts from 700AD upto the present day, which if laid out would stretch to approximately 83 km in length, also on display are notable works of art, including life-size sculptures and the work of highly-skilled 18th century cabinet makers.

Archivo di Stato

Piazza Castello, 209, 10100 Turin, Italy