The doors of a historic residence open for free in Villafranca Piemonte
The A.D.S.I. National Day is the annual event where the Italian Historic Houses Association opens hundreds of private castles, villas, palaces, and gardens across Italy for free on a single Sunday in May. In Villafranca Piemonte, within the Metropolitan City of Turin, the Castello di Marchierù in the San Giovanni district participates by opening its gates to anyone wishing to discover its park, interiors, and history.
The Marchierù complex has roots dating back to the 12th century. Originally a fortress linked to the Savoia-Acaja dynasty, it eventually lost its defensive function to become a noble residence. Its distinctive neo-Gothic appearance, featuring colorful horizontal bands, dates back to the 18th century. Surrounding the castle is a 19th-century park with elegant boxwood broderie patterns and corners dedicated to hydrangeas, peonies, and roses.
During the event, admission is free for the park, the ancient 18th-century stables, and the private chapel. Those who wish to explore the interior rooms can join guided tours, accompanied by experts who share the history of the house, the families who lived there, and the furnishings.
The event highlights a widespread Italy made of homes preserved by generations, often far from mainstream tourist circuits. Marchierù is a prime example in the plains between Cuneo and Turin: a day to admire the architecture, gardens, and surrounding agricultural landscape while supporting the preservation of these sites.
The 16th A.D.S.I. National Day brought an extraordinary opening to Villafranca Piemonte at the Castello di Marchierù on Sunday, May 24, 2026, with a repeat on Sunday, May 31. The residence was one of the 36 Piedmontese homes participating, spread across the provinces of Alessandria, Asti, Biella, Cuneo, Novara, and Turin.
The national theme of the year was: "Guardians of the future. A living heritage for a shared value," emphasizing the role of the families who safeguard these homes.
Access was by mandatory reservation (phone +39 348 0468636 or email [email protected]).
Mandatory reservation by calling +39 348 0468636 or emailing [email protected].
Castello di Marchierù, Frazione San Giovanni 77, 10068 Villafranca Piemonte (TO), Piedmont.
By car from Turin or Pinerolo, head towards Villafranca Piemonte; the San Giovanni district is just outside the town center. A car is recommended due to the castle's rural location.
Free entry to the park, stables, and chapel. Guided tours of the interiors require a small donation (free for young children). Booking is mandatory by calling +39 348 0468636 or emailing [email protected]. For information, you can also contact the Villafranca Piemonte municipal office (+39 011 9807107).
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Castello di Marchierù
Frazione San Giovanni 77, 10068 Villafranca Piemonte