Mole Antonelliana travel guide

Dating back to the late 19th century, Mole Antonelliana is a paramount symbol of Turin, Italy, renowned for its stunning architecture and intriguing history. It was originally designed by Alessandro Antonelli as a synagogue for the Jewish community in 1863.

However, due to spiraling costs and Antonelli's relentless ambition to make it the tallest structure in Turin, the Jewish community sold it to the city in 1878. The building then saw a transformation into a monument dedicated to King Victor Emmanuel II.

The Mole Antonelliana was completed in 1889, reaching a height of 167.5 meters and becoming the tallest brick building in the world at that time. Its pinnacle was damaged in 1953 by a tornado, but was later restored, adding an antenna that increased its height to 167 meters. Today, it houses the National Museum of Cinema, and its panoramic lift offers breathtaking views of Turin, making it an essential stop for any visitor to the city.

Mole Antonelliana is an architectural marvel that boasts a host of unique features. Standing tall at 167 meters, it is the tallest museum in the world. The building is characterized by its unique spire which towers over the city of Turin, offering an unrivalled view of the cityscape and surrounding Alps. The structure itself is an architectural hybrid, combining elements of neoclassical and eclectic styles, a testament to the creative vision of its architect, Alessandro Antonelli.

One of the standout features of Mole Antonelliana is its panoramic lift. This glass elevator rises through the centre of the building, providing a breathtaking aerial perspective of its intricate interior architecture. The interior also hosts the National Museum of Cinema, which is fittingly staged within this former synagogue. The museum is a visual spectacle in itself, with its vast, circular layout and multi-storey exhibits. It showcases a rich collection of cinematic history from Italy and around the world, making Mole Antonelliana a must-visit attraction for film enthusiasts.

Discover Mole Antonelliana, a prime feature of Turin, in the vibrant Turin. Mole Antonelliana is situated at Via Montebello, 20, 10124 Torino TO, Italy, just a short distance from Giardini Reali di Torino and Galleria Subalpina, making it a perfect addition to your itinerary.

In the vicinity of Mole Antonelliana, various dining and shopping options await, alongside a lively atmosphere that captures the essence of local life. This location serves as a perfect starting point or a key highlight during your exploration of Turin, a city in Italy rich with cultural and adventurous activities.

When planning your trip, timing is key. Explore travel trips and ideas on this city from the comprehensive Turin travel guide for an unforgettable adventure.

Mole Antonelliana is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Turin, Italy. If you're flying in, Milan–Malpensa Airport is approximately 63.3 miles (101.8 km) away from the city center. From there, you can easily reach Mole Antonelliana by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Turin, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Mole Antonelliana, which is located 0.5 miles (0.8 km) from the city center. Its exact address is Via Montebello, 20, 10124 Torino TO, Italy.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Mole Antonelliana!

The best time to explore Mole Antonelliana is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November). During these periods, Turin experiences mild weather that's ideal for sightseeing, and the Mole Antonelliana is less crowded. Tourists can enjoy their visit without having to navigate through throngs of people and can savor the panoramic views from the tower's observation deck in relative peace. Additionally, these seasons also coincide with Turin's cultural events such as the Turin Jazz Festival in spring and the Torino Film Festival in autumn. These events add an exciting dimension to your visit, allowing tourists to immerse themselves in local culture and festivities. Remember to book your Mole Antonelliana tickets in advance to avoid long lines. Lastly, visiting on a weekday morning can further ensure a tranquil experience as this is typically when the site is least busy. No matter when you choose to visit, Mole Antonelliana's stunning architecture and fascinating museum are sure to captivate you.

To truly enjoy your visit to Mole Antonelliana, joining a guided tour of this renowned monument in Turin is highly recommended. As one of Italy's most iconic attractions, Mole Antonelliana draws visitors from across the globe, often leading to long queues and limited availability.

Booking a tour in advance allows you to skip the lines and ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience. With the biggest selection of tours and tickets in Turin, you’re sure to find an option that fits your schedule and preferences.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to Mole Antonelliana starting at just 19 EUR below. Enjoy benefits like free cancellation and 24/7 customer support for added convenience.

If you're looking for an effortless way to explore Mole Antonelliana, perfectly planned travel packages to Turin make it easy and enjoyable, all while keeping costs manageable. With everything seamlessly arranged for your trip to Turin, you can simply pack your bags and look forward to exploring Mole Antonelliana.

Keep reading to discover the best options for experiencing this iconic monument in Italy.

Upon arriving at Milan–Malpensa Airport, you’ll find 3 reputable rental car companies conveniently situated near the city of Turin.

Click 'See More' to unlock other affordable car rental options in Turin.

Choosing the right accommodation near Mole Antonelliana from the widest selection of hotels and places to stay in Turin can truly make all the difference in your trip. Not only will you be within a comfortable distance from Mole Antonelliana, but you’ll also enjoy the best rates available, backed by 24/7 customer service and glowing reviews.

To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve curated a handpicked list of top-rated hotels nearby.

Beyond Mole Antonelliana, Turin boasts plenty more landmarks that make every trip unforgettable. From museum to church, the top attractions in Turin offer experiences you won’t want to miss.

One of the most notable attractions to visit while in Turin is Egyptian Museum, located at Via Accademia delle Scienze, 6, 10123 Torino TO, Italy. This well-known museum enhances your time in the city.

Whether you plan a short visit or take time to explore fully, Parco del Valentino is worth seeing when you're in Turin. It's a popular park that’s perfect for rounding out your itinerary. You’ll find it at Corso Massimo d'Azeglio, 10126 Torino TO, Italy.

For an unforgettable addition to your itinerary, a visit to Basilica of Superga completes any trip to Turin. This church draws visitors with its unique appeal, making it an essential stop on your journey. Located at Strada Comunale alla Basilica di Superga, 73, 10132 Torino TO, Italy, its surroundings offer plenty of reasons to linger a little longer.

The city's top sights offer a wide variety of experiences to make your trip truly memorable. Check out the full list of top attractions in Turin below to discover even more incredible places to explore.