A Country Villa in the City Center of Turin

Turin is a richly cultured city, full of charm and wonder, though often underestimated by its visitors. The curious are often wowed by the cities incredibly rich art scene, hidden behind the somber facades of the city’s many impressive buildings. The Church of San Lorenzo, the Dome of the Cathedral, the Palazzo del Collegio dei Nobili built by Guarino Guarini; the works of Filippo Juvarra, among which are the Basilica of Superga and the Palazzina di Caccia di Stupinigi, commissioned by Duke Vittorio Amedeo II to give the ever-growing city a new aspect; and then there are of course the many stately homes which overlook the narrow streets of the city’s historic center, many designed by renowned architects including Benedetto Alfieri, Antonio Vittone and Carlo and Amedeo di Castellamonte. For those looking to spend a day or two discovering this beautiful city, I recommend organizing an aperitif, lunch or dinner at Verrua, a historic aristocratic residence which was built by the Counts Scaglia di Verrua during the second half of the 17th century. Although located very close to the city center in the residential district of Crocetta, the residence was originally a country villa.  It is surrounded on all four sides by an Italian garden which is an unusual feature for a residence in the city center. The Countesses Sofia and Paola Rignon, whose family took possession of the residence in the mid-1700s, continue to live there with their families, where they carry on the tradition of welcoming guests to their home with grace and enthusiasm! The rooms on the ground floor can accommodate between 20 and 150 people for lunch or dinner, while the large garden surrounding the residence can be utilized during the warm summer months for both private and corporate events.