Piazza San Carlo

Piazza San Carlo is an elegant arcaded square in Turin's Centro Storico, in Piedmont, often called the city's drawing room because of its formal proportions and cafe culture. It was laid out in the 17th century as part of the Savoy capital's expansion and is lined with uniform Baroque arcades that shelter some of the city's oldest cafes and shops. At the north end stand the twin churches of Santa Cristina and San Carlo, which appear nearly identical and frame the view toward Via Roma. In the centre sits the bronze equestrian statue of Duke Emmanuel Philibert, a favourite meeting point for locals and a classic photo subject. Visitors usually spend 20 to 30 minutes crossing the square, but the cafes make it easy to stay longer. Historic establishments under the arcades serve the traditional Turin drink bicerin, a layered mix of coffee, chocolate and cream, as well as aperitivo in the evening. The best photographic angles are from the southern end looking toward the twin churches, and from beneath the arcades with the statue framed in the centre. Crowds are moderate through the day and rise in the evening when locals gather, while mid-morning is calm and pleasant. The square is free and open at all times. It is about five minutes on foot from Porta Nuova station, and Metro Line 1 also stops there. Nearby sights include Palazzo Carignano, the Egyptian Museum and Piazza Castello, so the piazza fits naturally into a walking route through central Turin. Visitors may also notice that the square is used for events and markets at different times of year. A walk under the arcades is a good wet-weather option.