Attraction Guide: Mole Antonelliana, Turin, Italy

Mole Antonelliana Guide

Mole Antonelliana: Turin's Iconic Landmark and Cinema Museum Guide

The Mole Antonelliana is Turin's most iconic landmark, a towering structure that dominates the city's skyline. Originally conceived as a synagogue, it now houses the National Cinema Museum, making it a unique and fascinating destination for tourists. Its distinctive silhouette and rich history make it a must-see for anyone visiting Turin. Construction of the Mole Antonelliana began in 1863 by Alessandro Antonelli, who envisioned it as a grand synagogue for the Jewish community of Turin. However, the project faced numerous challenges and underwent several modifications, leading to escalating costs. Eventually, the Jewish community could no longer afford the construction, and the city of Turin took over the project in 1878. Antonelli continued to work on the Mole until his death in 1888, and the building was finally completed in 1889. Over the years, the Mole has undergone several renovations and restorations, including the addition of a spire after the original was damaged in a storm. Today, the Mole Antonelliana is home to the National Cinema Museum, one of the most important film museums in the world. Visitors can explore the history of cinema through interactive exhibits, film screenings, and a vast collection of movie memorabilia. The panoramic elevator inside the Mole offers breathtaking 360-degree views of Turin and the surrounding Alps. While the Mole itself doesn't have a specific culinary tradition, the surrounding neighborhood is filled with restaurants and cafes offering a variety of Piedmontese specialties, including bicerin, a traditional Turin coffee drink made with espresso, chocolate, and milk.