Parco Aperto - Villa Lascaris

A day in the greenery of Villa Lascaris

In the heart of Pianezza, on the outskirts of Turin, the historic park of Villa Lascaris opens its gates for Parco Aperto, an event celebrating the summer solstice by turning the monumental garden into a large shared space for families, children, and teenagers. For an entire Sunday, the villa's English-style park—commissioned in the late 19th century by Monsignor Gastaldi and home to Lebanon cedars, plane trees, horse chestnuts, magnolias, and an impressive tulip tree—becomes the stage for workshops, tours, games, and wellness activities.

Thematic areas

The event is organized into several areas designed for all ages, each with its own unique character:

• ParcoKids — creative workshops and a large self-guided treasure hunt in the park, with an exploration kit provided free of charge to families at the entrance.
• ParcoTeens — a space dedicated to teenagers aged 9 to 14, featuring role-playing game tables and introductory Dungeons & Dragons sessions led by expert masters.
• ParcoSee — guided tours of the villa and its historic park conducted by UNECON volunteers, exploring stately halls, 17th-century statues, and scenic vistas.
• ParcoFit — mini-sessions of yoga and pilates to find balance and breath in the greenery.
• ParcoTalk — cultural meetings and presentations dedicated to the history of the local area.
• ParcoFree and ParcoFood — relaxation areas on the lawns, book crossing, a refreshment point, and an ice cream cart.

A place steeped in history

Villa Lascaris is no ordinary setting: among the surviving columns of the ancient ballroom, the heroic action of Maria Bricca took place. She was the heroine of Pianezza who, in 1706 during the Siege of Turin, led troops through a secret passage, contributing to the city's liberation. The program often dedicates its cultural meetings to this figure, accompanied by historical re-enactments featuring local historical groups in costume.

Why it's worth visiting

Organized by the spirituality and culture house of the Archdiocese of Turin in collaboration with UNECON and under the patronage of the Municipality of Pianezza, Parco Aperto is one of those events that make the Province of Turin and Piedmont a region rich in family-friendly opportunities. It is a simple, well-curated day made of monumental trees, outdoor games, and shared culture, perfect for those seeking a slow, green alternative just minutes from the city.