Country | Italy |
Population | 843514 |
Area | 130.17 km2 (50.26 sq mi) |
Time Zone | UTC+1 (CET) |
Coordinates | 45.07049, 7.68682 |
Highest elevation | 239 m (784 ft) |
City Gallery
City Description
Turin, known in Italian as Torino, is a significant business and cultural hub in Northern Italy. As the capital city of Piedmont and the Metropolitan City of Turin, it holds a prominent place in the country’s history and economy. The city, historically the first capital of Italy from 1861 to 1865, is located primarily on the western bank of the Po River, nestled below the Susa Valley and surrounded by the western Alpine arch and Superga hill.
As of October 2023, Turin’s population stands at 843,514, with the broader urban area estimated to house 1.7 million residents. The metropolitan area, according to the OECD, has a population of about 2.2 million. This makes Turin one of the largest and most populous cities in Italy.
Turin’s historical significance is profound. From 1563, it served as the capital of the Duchy of Savoy, later becoming the capital of the Kingdom of Sardinia under the House of Savoy. It earned the nickname “the cradle of Italian liberty” for its pivotal role in the Risorgimento, the movement that led to the unification of Italy. The city was home to notable figures such as Camillo Benso, Count of Cavour, a leading architect of Italian unification.
Despite losing much of its political clout post-World War II, Turin transformed into a major European industrial and commercial hub, forming part of Italy’s industrial triangle with Milan and Genoa. Today, it ranks third in Italy for economic strength, boasting a GDP of $58 billion, placing it 78th globally in purchasing power. The city was also recognized as a Gamma-level global city by GaWC in 2018.
Turin is renowned for its automotive industry, housing the headquarters of iconic brands like Fiat, Lancia, and Alfa Romeo. This industrial backbone has driven much of the city’s economic success and global influence.
Culturally, Turin is rich and diverse. The city is famed for its Baroque, Rococo, Neoclassical, and Art Nouveau architecture. Many of its public squares, castles, gardens, and elegant palazzi, such as the Palazzo Madama, date back to the 16th to 18th centuries. The historical center of Turin, including the Residences of the Royal House of Savoy, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Turin is home to numerous museums, art galleries, and cultural institutions. The Museo Egizio, one of the most important Egyptian museums in the world, and the Mole Antonelliana, an iconic architectural symbol that houses the National Museum of Cinema, are notable examples. These attractions contribute to Turin being one of the world’s top tourist destinations, making it the tenth most visited city in Italy as of 2008.
The city also boasts some of Italy’s top educational institutions, including the University of Turin, founded in the 15th century, and the Turin Polytechnic, which attract students from around the globe.
Turin is famous for several cultural icons, including the Shroud of Turin, the chocolate delicacy gianduja, and the renowned football club Juventus, which competes fiercely with local rival Torino in the Derby della Mole.
Turin has also been a significant host of international events. It was one of the host cities for the 1934 and 1990 FIFA World Cups and hosted the 2006 Winter Olympics. More recently, Turin hosted the Eurovision Song Contest in 2022 and is the current host of the tennis ATP Finals from 2021 until 2025.
Turin’s infrastructure is robust, with an extensive network of public transportation including trams, buses, and a metro system that efficiently connects the city. Turin’s main train stations, Porta Nuova and Porta Susa, are key hubs for national and international rail services. The city is also served by Turin Caselle Airport, which provides both domestic and international flights.
In conclusion, Turin is a city that masterfully blends its rich historical heritage with modern economic prowess and cultural vibrancy. Its strategic location, robust economy, vibrant cultural scene, and commitment to education and innovation make it a compelling destination for residents, businesses, and tourists alike. Whether exploring its historical landmarks, engaging with its rich cultural offerings, or participating in its dynamic economic activities, Turin offers a unique and enriching experience that captures the essence of Northern Italy.
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