Biblioteca Reale
Step into history at the Biblioteca Reale, home to Leonardo da Vinci's self-portrait and ancient maps. A UNESCO site within Turin's Royal Palace.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene atmosphere.
Biblioteca Reale
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step into history at the Biblioteca Reale, home to Leonardo da Vinci's self-portrait and ancient maps. A UNESCO site within Turin's Royal Palace.
"Goosebump moments seeing his sketches and most famously, his self-portrait!"
🎟️ Check Your Ticket
Ensure your Royal Palace ticket includes access to the Biblioteca Reale to avoid entry issues.
🤫 Respect the Silence
It's a historic library; maintain a quiet demeanor to appreciate the atmosphere.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Leonardo da Vinci's Self-Portrait
Leonardo Exhibition
A rare and iconic self-portrait by the Renaissance master, offering a direct connection to genius.
Amerigo Vespucci's Nephew's World Map
Exhibition Area
Witness a historic map from the Age of Discovery, detailing the newly found world.
Historic Library Interior
Reading Room
Step back in time amidst stunning architecture and the hushed reverence of a UNESCO-registered library.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Don't Miss the Masterpieces
Navigating the Royal Palace
Best Times
Insider Tips
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Royal Palace Turin
🎟️ Check Your Ticket
Ensure your Royal Palace ticket includes access to the Biblioteca Reale to avoid entry issues.
🤫 Respect the Silence
It's a historic library; maintain a quiet demeanor to appreciate the atmosphere.
What to visit in Turin?
Things to Do in Turin + Northern Italy
🗺️ Locate the Library
The library is separate from the main palace; look for signs to find it.
📸 Limited Photography
Photography may be restricted, especially in exhibition areas. Be mindful of signage.
Due giorni a Torino: quali sono le cose da non perdere?
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Check Your Ticket
Ensure your Royal Palace ticket includes access to the Biblioteca Reale to avoid entry issues.
🤫 Respect the Silence
It's a historic library; maintain a quiet demeanor to appreciate the atmosphere.
🗺️ Locate the Library
The library is separate from the main palace; look for signs to find it.
📸 Limited Photography
Photography may be restricted, especially in exhibition areas. Be mindful of signage.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are captivated by the Biblioteca Reale's historical treasures, particularly Leonardo da Vinci's self-portrait and an ancient world map. The library's beautiful, historic interior offers a serene atmosphere. However, some guests have encountered rude staff and issues with access to certain areas, which can mar the experience.
"Dive into a different epoch with the royal library as backdrop. What a wonderful place to be in and hearing every single footstep on the wooden floors.
We were very lucky and only a handful of people were also visiting the Leonardo exhibition and goosebump moments seeing his sketches and most famously, his self-portrait!
Another goosebump moment for me was the world map sketched by Amerigo Vespucci's nephew when the new world was discovered and named after him “America!”
Absolutely loved also the books that detailed Leonardo's career and fello intellectuals. Some of these books contained his annotations.
Not to miss."
Patric Pop (Business Portraits Photos)
"Lovely and historic library which is UNESCO registered. Located in the royale Palace !
The library contained lot of masterpieces such as Leonard de Vinci portrait!
The interior of library is beautiful !
The visit is short but worth it"
Frédéric Borgognon
"There is a sign saying that visitors with a museum ticket can enter the reading room but I have a valid ticket and the staff won’t let me in. The old woman at the front desk is extremely rude and basically shouting at me, despite the tranquil library atmosphere. I love visiting different historic libraries when I travel so it’s very disappointing to have paid for the full Royal Palaces experience and then to be denied access to parts of the complex that are clearly open to other people who the staff seem to like more than tourists."
Carly L
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Biblioteca Reale is located within the Royal Palace of Turin complex. You can reach the Royal Palace by public transport, including buses and trams that stop nearby. It's also a pleasant walk from the city center.
While part of the Royal Palace, the library is sometimes set apart. Look for specific signage directing you to the Biblioteca Reale to ensure you don't miss it.
Opening hours can vary, especially with special exhibitions. It's best to check the official Royal Palace of Turin website for the most up-to-date information on opening times.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Typically, a ticket for the Royal Palace of Turin includes access to the Biblioteca Reale. However, it's crucial to confirm this when purchasing your ticket to avoid any confusion or denial of entry.
Access to the reading room might be restricted or require specific conditions, even with a museum ticket. Some visitors have reported issues with staff denying access, so be prepared for this possibility.
Check for combined tickets or city passes that might include entry to the Royal Palace and its associated attractions like the Biblioteca Reale. This can often be more cost-effective.
A visit to the Biblioteca Reale is usually quite short, often around 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your interest in the exhibitions and the specific areas accessible.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography rules can be strict, especially in exhibition areas showcasing delicate artifacts like Leonardo da Vinci's works. Always look for and respect 'no photography' signs.
Generally, flash photography is prohibited, and in some sensitive areas, all photography might be banned to preserve the artifacts. It's best to assume limited photo opportunities.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The absolute highlights are Leonardo da Vinci's self-portrait and the world map by Amerigo Vespucci's nephew. The historic interior of the library itself is also a major draw.
Visitors often describe a serene and historic atmosphere, with the sound of footsteps on wooden floors adding to the ambiance. However, some reviews mention rude staff can detract from this.
While not always explicitly advertised, inquire at the ticket counter or information desk about the possibility of guided tours or audio guides that can enhance your understanding of the exhibits.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, keep in mind that the library is a place for quiet contemplation, so it might be best suited for families with children who can appreciate a more subdued environment. Ensure your ticket covers library access, and be prepared for potential restrictions on photography.
📚 History Buffs & Art Lovers
Beyond the specific exhibits, the UNESCO-registered interior provides an authentic glimpse into the grandeur of royal libraries. The hushed environment, punctuated by the creak of wooden floors, enhances the immersive historical feel.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Treasures of the Biblioteca Reale
Visitors often describe goosebump moments when encountering these masterpieces. The library also holds books detailing Leonardo's career, some with his personal annotations, further deepening the connection to the past. The interior of the library itself is a significant attraction, with its beautiful architecture and the palpable sense of history that permeates the space.
It's important to note that the library is part of the larger Royal Palace complex. While the visit is typically short, the impact of seeing these unique items is profound. Ensure your ticket grants access, and be prepared for a quiet, reflective experience.
Navigating Staff and Access
Access to certain areas, like the reading room, has also been a point of contention for some visitors who, despite having valid tickets, were denied entry. This inconsistency in access and the reported attitude of some staff members are recurring themes in visitor feedback.
It's advisable to approach your visit with patience and a clear understanding of your ticket's inclusions. If you encounter difficulties, try to remain calm and seek clarification politely. However, be aware that negative experiences with staff have been noted by multiple visitors.
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