Hotels near Mole Antonelliana
Turin · 1 hotel nearby
Photo by Simone Dragonetti on Unsplash
About Mole Antonelliana
Rising dramatically above Turin's rooftops, the Mole Antonelliana is the city's most recognizable structure and a true symbol of Piedmontese identity. Originally conceived as a synagogue in the 1860s, this extraordinary building was designed by architect Alessandro Antonelli and eventually became a civic monument owned by the city of Turin.
Architecture and History
The Mole Antonelliana was built between 1863 and 1889, reaching a height of 167.5 meters — making it one of the tallest masonry buildings in the world. Its slender spire and layered classical facade reflect Antonelli's ambitious and unconventional vision. The structure changed hands several times before the city of Turin acquired it in 1878. Today it appears on the Italian 2-cent euro coin, a testament to its national cultural significance.
National Cinema Museum
Since 2000, the Mole has housed the Museo Nazionale del Cinema, one of the most visited film museums in Europe. The interior features a dramatic atrium with exhibits arranged across multiple levels, tracing the history of cinema from pre-cinematic optical devices to modern filmmaking. A panoramic glass elevator runs through the center of the building, carrying visitors up to the 85-meter observation terrace for sweeping views over Turin and the Alps.
Practical Tips
- Opening hours: Tuesday–Sunday; closed Mondays (check official website for seasonal variations)
- Tickets: Combined tickets for the museum and elevator are available and offer better value
- Getting there: A short walk from Piazza Castello and the Egyptian Museum; well-connected by tram
- Best time to visit: Weekday mornings tend to be less crowded
- Nearby: Piazza San Carlo and Piazza Castello are both within easy walking distance
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
What is the Mole Antonelliana originally built for?
The Mole Antonelliana was originally designed to serve as a synagogue for Turin's Jewish community. Construction began in 1863 under architect Alessandro Antonelli, though the building was later acquired by the city and repurposed as a civic monument.
Can visitors go to the top of the Mole Antonelliana?
Yes. A panoramic glass elevator takes visitors to an observation terrace at 85 meters, offering clear views over Turin's historic center and the surrounding Alpine landscape.
Is the National Cinema Museum worth visiting?
The Museo Nazionale del Cinema is consistently rated among the top attractions in Turin. Its collection covers the full history of cinema, from early optical toys to contemporary film, displayed across the building's impressive interior atrium.
How tall is the Mole Antonelliana?
The Mole Antonelliana stands at 167.5 meters tall, making it one of the tallest masonry buildings in the world and the tallest building in Turin.
