Remains of the Roman theatre of Augusta Taurinorum beneath the Musei Reali complex, with the Museo di Antichita collections.
The Roman Theatre of Turin lies in the archaeological area of the Musei Reali, beside Piazza Castello in the historic centre of Turin, Piedmont, Italy. It belonged to Augusta Taurinorum, the colony founded in the late 1st century BCE, and dates from the early Roman Empire. The theatre was built in the north-eastern part of the Roman city, close to the walls, and could seat several thousand spectators for drama and public events. After the Roman period it was gradually buried and built over, and only the excavations of the 20th century revealed its plan.
The visible remains include sections of the curved cavea, the semicircular seating area, with masonry foundations and radial walls that supported the tiers, together with portions of the stage structure. Fragments of columns and architectural decoration recovered nearby are displayed in the connected museum. The archaeological area is reached through the Museo di Antichita, entered at Via XX Settembre 88c, and forms part of the visitor route of the Musei Reali, the complex that also includes Palazzo Reale, the Armeria Reale, the Galleria Sabauda and the Biblioteca Reale.
The Museo di Antichita presents finds from Piedmont and the wider north-west, from prehistoric tools through Roman inscriptions, sculpture and everyday objects to material from the colony itself. The curatorial approach is chronological and regional, with the theatre acting as the on-site anchor of the display. Visitors can read the topography of the Roman city, noting how the later palaces, the cathedral and the Piazza Castello sit on or near the ancient street plan.
The remains have been consolidated in stages since excavation, with walkways and protective cover installed to prevent erosion of the brick and stone. Interpretation panels explain the building, and the site is small enough to take in within a short visit. It is best treated as a complement to the main Musei Reali route rather than a stand-alone destination, and the combined ticket, about EUR 18, covers the wider complex.
| Admission | Included in the Musei Reali ticket, about EUR 18 (approx. $20.70) |
|---|---|
| Hours | Through the Musei Reali opening days, Tue-Sun; confirm at museireali.beniculturali.it |
| Address | Via XX Settembre 88c (entry through Museo di Antichita), 10122 Torino |
Why it matters
The theatre is physical evidence of the civic life of Augusta Taurinorum, the Roman colony beneath modern Turin. Its remains sit next to the Savoy royal complex, showing how the city's power centre has stayed on the same ground for two thousand years.
Location
Via XX Settembre 88c (entry through Museo di Antichita), 10122 Torino
45.0735, 7.6845 View on map
Highlights
- Remains of the curved cavea and masonry foundations of the Roman theatre
- Museo di Antichita collections from prehistoric to Roman Piedmont
- Integrated entry within the Musei Reali complex
- A view of how the Roman street plan underlies the Savoy centre
Tips for visiting
- Enter through the Museo di Antichita; confirm opening days at museireali.beniculturali.it.
- The Musei Reali ticket, about EUR 18, covers the theatre and the rest of the complex, so plan a half day.
- Start in the museum for context before walking to the theatre remains.
- Tuesday to Sunday are the usual opening days; check for Monday closure.
- Pair with Porta Palatina to see both Roman landmarks in one morning.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
Is the site English-language friendly?
Interpretation panels and the Musei Reali website are available in English, and audio guides can be requested at the ticket desk. Confirm current provision at museireali.beniculturali.it.
How long does a visit take?
The theatre and Museo di Antichita take about an hour. A full Musei Reali visit with the palace and galleries takes most of a day.
Can the site be visited with children?
Yes, children usually enjoy the open archaeological area, though uneven surfaces call for supervision. Reduced fares apply for younger visitors under the Musei Reali rules.