Turin in Italy's Piedmont region is rich in cultural and historical treasures.

The Reggia di Venaria, built for the Savoia Dynasty in the 17th and 18th century, is one of the many gems in the crown of royal residences surrounding this beautiful city.

This magnificent palace and gardens, designed as a hunting and leisure retreat, fell into decline from 1798 when it was used as a military barracks.

The original layout of the gardens was wiped away to make room for a military drill grounds.  Cannons and muskets replaced flowerbeds, fountains and sculptures.  

The palace remained a military drill ground during the 1st and 2nd world wars and subsequently was abandoned and vandalised in the following decades.

From 1998 a massive renovation project began which would take 20 years to complete.  It was the largest project for the restoration of cultural heritage ever undertaken in Europe, restoring the original frescoes, stucco decorations and archeological remains.

The inauguration in 2007 marked the rebirth of this magnificent royal palace and it’s beautiful gardens.

More photos available for licensing here.

Susan Wright is an editorial photographer based in Italy and Australia.

All images copyright © Susan Wright

Please contact the copyright holder if you wish to share or publish any images.

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