Associazione Città Italiane Patrimonio Mondiale UNESCO

The castle was built in 1200 and, in 1475, became a ducal palace upon the orders of Yolande de Valois. It was used as an occasional residence by Emanuel Philibert, whereas Charles Emanuel I began restoration work, which was to continue under Victor Amadeus I and Christine of France, daughter of Emperor Henry IV. The castle became a place of confinement upon the orders of Charles Emanuel III for Victor Amadeus II, who died there. Under Emanuel III, work was undertaken by Benedetto Alfieri, whereas architect Francesco Martinez was responsible for the chapel by the main stairs, modifications to the interior facade, refurnishing work in the rooms, and re-designing of the park.
The French transformed it into a hospital and prison, but under Victor Emanuel I in 1817 restoration work began. During the Emergency, the castle was occupied, successively, by Nazis, partisans, and then evacuees.