With its unique shape, the Mole Antonelliana of Turin has been making Turin's skyline recognizable worldwide since 1889 (end of construction year), designed by Alessandro Antonelli. Initially intended as the city's synagogue, disagreements between the architect and the Jewish community led to its purchase by the Municipality of Turin and its conversion into a tourist attraction.
Inside, if you look up in the last ring before the dome begins, you can see the statue of the "winged genius," a historic spire that once crowned the city from above but was destroyed by a hurricane in 1904.
Rebuilt and replaced by a twelve-pointed steel star in the years to come, it was again destroyed by a storm on May 23, 1953 and reinstated in the early sixties. The star is still visible at the top.
The Mole Antonelliana represents one of the emblems of neoclassical/eclectic style in history; it's consisting of a large masonry and steel dome. The interior is intricately decorated with beams forming a distinctive diamond pattern.
Inside, there is the National Cinema Museum, considered one of the most important in the world in its field. Turin was the birthplace of Italian Cinema. In March 1896, the Lumière brothers, Louis and Auguste, showcased their invention for the first time in Italy, right in Turin. This marked the first film screening in the country.
Walking inside, you will come across some very comfortable armchairs, great experience, by the way 😊, that offer a different perspective of the dome's grandeur. Then, as you stroll through the perimeter rings, you can experience the evolutionary stages of its construction.
With its 167,5 meters in height, the Mole Antonelliana of Turin offers a 360° panoramic view of the entire city skyline, and on sunny, clear days, all the mountains of the surrounding Alpine arc are visible; from Monviso to the entire Susa Valley, to seeing the Alps of Valle d'Aosta.
In short, you can't come to Turin and not climb the Mole Antonelliana, it's really worth it, and I think it's a unique experience that I would recommend to anyone! By reading the sections indicated above, you can see all the services offered to provide you with a unique experience in every aspect.
But first, look below and take a look at some places I recommend if you want to stay just a few meters from this beautiful monument.
Temporary exhibition! 29/07/2024 ---> 13/01/2025
For lovers of great Hollywood movies, this is the perfect time to visit the Mole Antonelliana. Hollywood is stopping in Turin and bringing with it many different objects from various film sets!
Don't waste time, click here and book your next visit!
Temporary exhibition! 05/10/2024 ---> 16/02/2025
The first and extensive retrospective planned in Italy dedicated to Hans Ruedi Giger, one of the most visionary artists of the late 20th century. We all know him as the man who created the imagery for the film Alien.
Don't waste time, click here and book your next visit!
Address: Piazza Carlo Emanuele II 15, 10123 Turin.
A hotel in the heart of downtown Turin, just steps away from the Mole Antonelliana. The panoramic terrace on the top floor offers breathtaking views. Ideal for those who want to visit all the attractions of the historic center on foot!
Address: Piazza Vittorio Veneto 8, 10123 Turin.
A luxury boutique B&B where the keyword is "style." Just a few meters from the Mole Antonelliana, it offers a unique experience in one of Italy's most famous squares. The location and the view alone are worth the trip.
Address: Via Giuseppe Verdi 37, 10124 Turin.
An apartment located literally under the Mole Antonelliana. There's nothing more to say, the location is there, the feeling of being at home too, and the prices are relatively low for the place where you are!
Address: Via Gioachino Rossini 14, 10124 Turin.
A residence that immerses you in luxury and elegance and pampers you in every little detail! You will find elegant and renovated dwellings in the center of all the main attractions including, of course, the Mole Antonelliana.
- Discover tour and curiosities of the Mole Antonelliana.
- Find the perfect place for eating what you desire near the Mole Antonelliana.
Discover other beautiful attractions in the city with me!
all you have to do is click on the various links below and discover the other wonders of this beautiful city
- Structures near the Egyptian Museum
- Structures near the Royal Museums
- Structures near Palazzo Madama
- Structures near Automobile Museum
- Structures near Alliance Stadium
- Structures near Inalpi Arena
- Structures near Turin train stations
- Structures near Basilica of Superga
1. What is the historical meaning of the Mole Antonelliana of Turin?
The Mole Antonelliana was originally designed as a synagogue but was repurposed during construction to symbolize Italian unity. Its unique architecture blends Renaissance and modern elements, making it a landmark in Turin’s skyline.
2. What can I see inside the Mole Antonelliana of Turin?
Inside, you’ll find the National Cinema Museum, offering interactive exhibits on the history of film, iconic artifacts, and a spiral gallery. Turin: National Museum of Cinema & Mole Antonelliana Tour
3. How can I reach the Mole Antonelliana of Turin?
The Mole Antonelliana is well-connected by Turin’s public transport system. Take bus lines 55, 56, or 61, or tram line 13, which stop nearby. From Porta Nuova Station, it's a 15-minute walk.
Here the GTT Public Transport site
4. Is it possible to go to the top of the Mole Antonelliana of Turin?
Yes, a panoramic elevator takes you to the top of the Mole, offering breathtaking views of Turin and the surrounding Alps. Turin: Cinema Museum and Mole Antonelliana Elevator Tour
5. What is the best time to visit the Mole Antonelliana of Turin?
Visiting during clear weather enhances the experience as the panoramic views are a highlight. Weekdays are less crowded, and evenings provide a magical glimpse of the city lights from the top.
The hardest part is getting started, but for me, this is a very exciting job that allows me to continuously update you on events, recommended new venues, and restaurants where you can make your stay special.
To do all this, however, I need your continuous support! 😊
By clicking the button below, you will have the opportunity to book your next trip, not necessarily to Turin or Italy, but anywhere in the world! By doing so, the earnings I receive will help me stay independent and continue to share in detail the immense beauty of this city (Turin) and this region (Piedmont).
Thank you all!
Ciao, Matteo
- Hotel/Services : Book your next hotel, residence, flights, cars and packages, all around the world, on Expedia or Booking!😊
- Hotel: Book your next accommodation, everywhere you want, on Hotels or Vrbo! 😊
- Visit/Tours: Book your TOURS all around the city and beyond; any vacation around the world you book here, you can also book any visit/tour you want! Book with me on GetYourGuide! 😊
- Visit/Transport/Tours: Book your next tour, transport or visit all around the city and beyond; any vacation around the world you book here, you can also book any tour, transport or visit you want! Book with me on Viator! 😊
- Car Rental: Need a car for your next vacation? No problem, come book it with Discover Cars! 😊
- Bus, Train, Flight, Ferry: Looking for a way to get to the city? Book your trip to Turin with Omio! It compares all the prices and helps you find the most affordable option! 😊