Associazione Città Italiane Patrimonio Mondiale UNESCO

In 1620, Christine of France decided that the Castle was to become her residence, as indeed happened in 1630 when she became Duchess of Savoy. Work on the buildings was brought to completion by architects Carlo and Amedeo di Castellamonte.
Via the huge portal on the west side, up the twin flights of stairs and through the lodge, access is given to the Sala d’Onore (or Grand Hall), with decorations which exalt the Savoy family and remind the viewer of the military exploits of the old dukes. These were designed by Isidoro Bianchi and his sons Francesco and Pompeo.
Above the main gate is a depiction of Philip II Lackland, who helped Charles VIII in his attacks upon Italy. On the right is Philip's natural son, Renato, Earl of Villars and Tenda, who fought alongside Francis I of France and died in the battle of Pavia. On the left is Aymon (he of Caxton's foure sonnes), who helped the King of France in his wars against the English. On the north wall is a representation of Amadeus V, with Philip IV, King of France, and Count Robert of Flanders. The side panels show Amadeus VI entering into Constantinople and, on the left, the young Charles II of Savoy welcoming Charles VIII into Turin on his way to war against Naples. Ovals on the ceiling show mythological scenes.