Turin: A city of lights, arts and history

Long before I walked down the aisle, I had secretly wished for an Italian honeymoon. But destiny had a much bigger plan for me — I fell in love and married an Italian. So effectively, I wasn’t just setting out for an Italian sojourn, but to make the country my new home.

We started with Rome and it did live up to its reputation — the grandeur, history and its distinct charm were as well defined in reality as they are imagined. Ditto for Florence and Venice — alluring in every way. After exploring the most popular touristy places, it was Turin’s turn. Frankly, the notion was that the best has been explored already, and that the next destination will be a low profile affair.

The train from Rome brought us to Turin and the first look at the city that came under a clear morning sky was beautiful. I knew falling in love with the city known for its elegant architecture and passion for chocolates was just a matter of time.

Making the journey to our pre-booked accommodation in the central part of town, I caught a glimpse of Mole Antonelliana, a tall tower built a few centuries ago. It seems to dominate the landscape with ease. Later in the day, as I started to really discover Turin, I came across the many facets of a city which held the title of the first capital of modern day Italy.

In most European cities, all the action and excitement is usually concentrated at the centre and this one is no different. Piazza Castello — the central square —is lined with theatres and museums. Amidst all the European flavour, an Arab sight caught my attention — the Egyptian Museum happens to be one of the most popular tourist attractions of the city. Step in, and you will be in the company of a Pharoah, while you gaze at some of the rare Egyptian artifacts.

Another top draw of the square is the House of Savoy Royal Palace. The facade may not reveal the extravagance inside, but it is attractive enough to lure a visitor to take a  tour. Initially, the architecture around the city reminded me of Paris but soon, I discovered that it’s distinctly Baroque and holds its own.
As dusk falls, Turin transforms into a beautiful city of lights and most of the action shifts to the bistros and restaurants lining its boulevard. Friends had highly recommended Cafe Baratti & Milano under the arches of Piazza Castello. Opened in mid-nineteenth century, it’s popular for its chocolate drinks and savouries. The rates at these cafes are on the higher side owing to their indulgent ambience. We were informed by a waiter that the décor of the place hadn’t changed since 1903.
I come from a country of cricket lovers, but I am an avid soccer fan. Checking out the Juventus football club was on my list of things to do and the early part of next day was reserved for that. The stadium, a long drive away, is in the Vallette borough of Turin. Since it was off-season, I got a chance to tour the club’s museum section at leisure and catch a glimpse of the moments of past glory. The city also happens to be the home of car manufacturer Fiat and hence Museo dell’automobile, an automobile museum, is worth a visit.
In a city full of beautiful churches, Duomo di San Giovanni  (Turin Cathedral), the 5th century church built during the Renaissance period, is special. It is here that the Shroud of Turin is kept (a linen cloth bearing the image of a man who appears to have suffered physical trauma through crucifixion). Sadly, it wasn’t open for viewing on that day, but I am hopeful of viewing the sacred sight someday soon.

The writer is a karmic healer
and world wanderer