Biblioteca Reale di Torino (Royal Library of Turin), Turin

The Royal Library of Turin (Biblioteca Reale di Torino) is one of the city’s most treasured cultural institutions. Established in 1839 by King Charles Albert of Savoy, the library was created to preserve and expand the royal collection of manuscripts, rare books, and works of art. Housed within the Royal Palace complex, it forms part of the historic heart of Turin and reflects the intellectual ambitions of the Savoy dynasty, who sought to transform the city into a flourishing centre of knowledge and culture. Its neoclassical interiors, carefully designed to emphasize harmony and refinement, provide an elegant setting for centuries of history preserved in written form.

The library boasts an extraordinary collection of over 200,000 volumes, along with manuscripts, engravings, maps, and drawings that span from the Middle Ages to the modern period. Among its most prized possessions are works by Renaissance masters, including the world-famous Codex on the Flight of Birds and the celebrated self-portrait attributed to Leonardo da Vinci. Visitors can also find collections related to the House of Savoy and materials that trace Italy’s political and cultural transformations. These unique treasures make the library not only a repository of knowledge but also a showcase of artistic genius.

Today, the Royal Library remains an active research institution, welcoming visitors eager to discover its masterpieces. Temporary exhibitions highlight items from its vast holdings, often centered on themes of art, science, and history. For travelers exploring Turin’s Royal Museums, the library is an essential stop, offering a quiet yet profound encounter with Italy’s intellectual and artistic heritage. Its blend of royal grandeur and scholarly depth ensures a memorable experience for anyone interested in culture, history, or the enduring power of books.