Palazzo del Carretto “Art Apartments & Guesthouse” is a historic 17th-century residence converted into a guesthouse in the heart of Turin. Opened in the spring of 2017, the palazzo has quickly established itself as a notable player in Turin’s hospitality scene, partnering with leading industry operators in the hospitality sector and receiving excellent reviews on the major online platforms.
The decision to dedicate the suites of Palazzo del Carretto to art stems from the inherent artistic and architectural value of the building itself and reflects a desire to enrich it with the exhibition of contemporary artworks. The owners’ deep passion for art and their wish to disseminate and promote contemporary artistic culture— both painting and sculpture— has resulted in this unique fusion.
The refined elegance of the spaces and an appropriate artistic arrangement characterise the rooms of Palazzo del Carretto. The historic 17th-century Ballroom has thus been transformed into a modern art gallery showcasing the works of various artists. Each suite features artwork by a single artist, the pieces interacting dynamically with the room’s decor, sometimes creating a contrast, and other times highlighting the room’s unique features.
The history of Palazzo del Carretto
Palazzo del Carretto di Gorzegno is located in Turin, in a regularly shaped block historically called the “Isola dell’Assunta”, whose construction dates back to the second half of the 17th century. The residence is situated in an area rich in noble settlements, as evidenced by the multiple decorative elements indicative of a certain “taste of living” closely linked to the noble class, which are still well-preserved and prominent in the interiors, entrance and façades.
The Palazzo was erected by Francesco Giacinto Gallinati, and construction was completed in 1689. In 1768, the residence was purchased by Marquis Carlo Tete del Carretto di Gorzegno, who undertook renovations to enlarge his apartment on the main ‘piano nobile’ floor, including the installation of high-quality flooring, in particular a wooden parquet with inlays and quartzite tiles from Barge. The original decorative elements of the ancient Palazzo del Carretto di Gorzegno include stucco work, gilding, stone elements, paintings and frescoes, as well as polychrome coffered ceilings.
Historical research and restoration have revealed that the most important construction and decorative phases correspond to three distinct historical periods. The original late 17th-century construction includes the façade and some of the ornate wooden ceiling decorations. Subsequent transformations, , carried out nearly a century later, involved the removal of some wooden ceilings and may also have resulted in the elaborately decorated polychrome stucco work completed in the atrium. The second half of the 19th century saw a rich decorative phase that embellished some of the other rooms, characterised by gilded stucco, fireplaces, boiserie panelling and mirrors.
The suites
The residence offers 6 suites, 4 of which are equipped with kitchens, catering to every need, from families and couples to individuals visiting on business. Each suite features unique and prestigious details, curated in every detail, combining a refined and elegant atmosphere blending the charm of times gone by with the comforts of modern amenities.
Nearby UNESCO Sites
The Palazzo is located near two UNESCO World Heritage sites: the Savoy Residences, and the Po River Park and Turin Hills (a biosphere reserve).