Turin Civic Gallery of Modern and Contemporary Art, Turin

The Turin Civic Gallery of Modern and Contemporary Art, known as GAM (Galleria Civica d’Arte Moderna e Contemporanea), holds a central place in Italy’s cultural landscape. Established in 1863, it was the first public collection of modern art in the country and has since grown into one of the most important museums dedicated to 19th- and 20th-century works. The museum’s striking rationalist-style building, opened in 1959, provides a spacious setting for its diverse collection, making it both a historical landmark and a lively hub for artistic exploration.

The permanent collection features over 45,000 works, including paintings, sculptures, installations, photographs, and drawings. Visitors can admire pieces by Italian masters such as Giovanni Fattori, Medardo Rosso, and Giorgio de Chirico, alongside international figures like Paul Klee, Max Ernst, and Andy Warhol. The museum’s holdings trace the evolution of artistic movements from Romanticism and Impressionism to Surrealism, Arte Povera, and contemporary experimentation. Temporary exhibitions further expand their scope, bringing in major retrospectives and innovative projects that engage with current debates in art and culture.

Beyond the galleries, GAM offers a well-rounded experience for visitors. The museum includes a sculpture garden, a cinema dedicated to film and video art, and a library with resources on modern and contemporary art history. Educational programs, workshops, and guided activities make the space accessible to audiences of all ages, encouraging interaction and discovery.

For tourists in Turin, GAM represents not only an opportunity to view significant works of art but also to connect with the city’s longstanding role as a centre of creativity and innovation. Its blend of historical depth and contemporary relevance ensures a visit that is both enriching and inspiring.