Ancient Palatina Gate Porta Palatina in Turin

Remains of ancient Palatino gate Porta Palatina in Turin! I stared in disbelief trying to convince myself: yes this is from 1st century BC! Do I touch it?

This is one of the world’s oldest well preserved and maintained Roman gates. Porta Palatina, the Roman entrance to the city is a part of the remains of the city of Augusta Taurinorum, founded by Romans in 28 B.C. The polygonal towers are later additions to the original structure. The merlons atop the right tower are from 1404.

Palatine Gates Porta Palatina

Ancient Palatine Gates Porta Palatina in Turin

History of Palatine Gates of Porta Palatino

As per history records it is not clear what the gates were made for. If they were meant for palaces then the possibilities mentioned are:

  • Former Casa del Senato (House of the Senate), a medieval palace located very close to the Palatine Gate, inside the city walls
  • Second possibility points to Palazzo di Città (City Palace), the city hall of Turin placed not far from the gate
  • They could also have been for the adjacent amphitheater in historical neighborhood right outside the old city walls north of the Porta Palatina.

Ancient Palatine Gates Porta Palatina in Turin

Towers of Porta Palatina in Turin

The magnificent Porta Palatina, an ancient Roman city gate in the vibrant Northern Italian city of Turin (Torino), serves as a splendid entrance to the city center. Its grandeur and historical significance make it a remarkable sight to behold. Interestingly, we are fortunate that this architectural gem was not demolished during the 18th century when urban renewal projects prioritized progress over preserving heritage and artifacts.

Despite its current surroundings of modern buildings, some adorned with graffiti and unconventional art, the Porta Palatina maintains its awe-inspiring allure. Its location does not diminish its splendor. In fact, the gate stands as one of the best-preserved Roman gates in Europe, a testament to its enduring magnificence.

The Porta Palatina holds immense cultural importance, serving as the most significant archaeological site in Turin, alongside the nearby Roman theater. Its historical value lies not only in its architectural beauty but also in its representation of the city’s rich ancient heritage. Exploring the gate allows visitors to step back in time and envision the grandeur of the Roman era, making it a must-visit attraction for history enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike.

The statues of Julius Caesar and Augustus Caesar look majestic. These statues are the copies of the original ones that existed here.

statue of Julius Caesar

Statue of Julius Caesar

Statue of Augustus Caesar

Statue of Augustus Caesar

Archeological Park near the Palatina Gates

There is neat well maintained park nearby, Tourists, travelers, locals can spend good quality time in the lawns of the archeological park. Nearby there are are high rise modern buildings. It was obvious most of the local kids have a good game in this ancient piece of land!

Archeological Park near the Palatino Gates

Children playing in Archeological Park near the Palatino Gates

During the Augustan Age in the 1st century, the Porta Palatina, an expansive brick gate, was constructed. It was originally part of the defensive wall encircling the city and likely connected to a palace, which explains its name. Even in ancient times, the gate would have been a remarkable sight, showcasing the impressive craftsmanship of the era.

In Roman times, gates served vital functions, playing a crucial role in protecting cities from invasions and regulating the flow of people and goods entering and exiting the city. The Porta Palatina would have fulfilled these purposes, functioning as a gateway for surveillance and control.

Over time, the gate underwent transformations. It became integrated into a medieval fortification before eventually falling into disrepair and ruin for several centuries. Despite the passage of time, the Porta Palatina stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Roman architecture and engineering.

Italy is renowned for its abundance of Roman ruins, each varying in size and scale. When exploring the northern region of Italy, a visit to the charming city of Turin (formerly known as Julia Augusta Taurinorum in Roman times) is highly recommended. Alongside its ancient wonders, the city boasts a blend of modern marvels and offers breathtaking views of the majestic Alps. It is a destination that beautifully intertwines the past and the present, captivating visitors with its historical significance and natural splendor.

Know more…

Is Porta Palatina Turin free to see?

Very cool place for people who like roman architecture. It is free to see and worth a photo op.

What are the nearby sights?

You can walk around to see National Cinema Museum, Chapel of Holy Shroud and Palazzo Madama.

Why is Torino famous?

Torino is most famed for its Shroud of Turin which supposedly shows the visage of Jesus.

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34 Responses to “Ancient Palatina Gate Porta Palatina in Turin

  • Crisp and clear pictures.
    Wonder why the Caesars are always in the same pose, anywhere in Rome ! 🙂

  • I hope I get to see Italy one day. Your photos are amazing, and every time I look at one I want to start making plans for a visit there. Thank you Indrani, for this wonderful and interesting tour.

  • stunning ancient architectures. i love the stone and gravel architectures, its so neat. new buildings nowadays always use cement, metals and glass. new follower, fifty states travel.

  • Thanks for sharing – great photos and very interesting information. I learn so much from visiting That's my World folks.

  • Really Informative…. Good Photos too…

    Regards

    kochuravi

  • I am surprised about the bricks. I thought in Italy stone was the material used for building. They look good, wonderful colours!

  • I am running out of adjectives to comment on your Europe trip pics! was recently reading a book set in the hey days of the romans and your posts are giving me a better insight into history….

  • Seeing the ancient building and monument in Rome is like taking a tour through time. Thank you for sharing your journey and the wonders you find along the way. 🙂

  • I always wanted to have a tower on my house with window seats all around the edges where i could sit and read and look out the windows.

  • Wow! magnificent building and good work of art sculpture! Good day

  • Great t see it again. Thanks.

  • The building is very well preserved and beautiful.

  • Fantastic. The history there is incredible, that's something I miss living in a new part of the world.

  • Beautiful places full of history.
    The statues of these great warriors are very well preserved.

  • Awesome shots of the gate and the amazing statues.

  • Hi Indrani! Wonderful shots of a beautiful magnificent gate!!

    Blogtrotter Two waits for you inside a huge cave… ;)) Enjoy the mites and tites and have a great week!

  • Wow – such beautiful antiquity! Just gorgeous.

  • Would love to see this historical place. Very fascinating. 🙂

  • an imposing gate. the Roman statues are impressive. i love old places such as this–much to see and learn.

  • Wonderful Roman Gate and statues. Very well preseved.

  • My hubby has taken all the pictures.
    Very beautiful pictures. Statues looks marvellous. Lovely shot.

  • You are a well traveled lady. The places to visit just keep on adding.

    Thanks for sharing with us your photos and journeys.

  • They certainly are impressive!

  • Italy has just so much antiquity to maintain. It must be a burden to their national budget. These are splendid examples. I have wandered over others all around Rome. Good for an Australian to see such old examples of a built environment.

  • The gates are very impressive and great statues. I envy you your travels.

  • J & A sure do look mighty. Amazing, what endures times. Great shots.

  • How wonderful that this gate is still standing and is in such wonderful condition. You did a great job of capturing the magnificence of the gate.

  • Really wonderful pictures of the Porta Palatina with a good description, Indrani! I go there often, it's near Turin's Cathedral and Piazza Castello.
    Happy new week 🙂

  • Amazing! Those statues are awesome!! Great photos
    Hugs
    SueAnn

  • It is so amazing that those gates are still standing! I'm so fascinated by history and it's so incredible to think of anything still standing since 28 BC! Terrific photos and post, as always, Indrani! Enjoy your week!

    Sylvia

  • Thank you for sharing your beautiful and historical interesting shots. Everywhere in Europe there are Roman remnants and traces of their footsteps. Even in my country!

  • Those were the days of the Romans. To think the gates still stands so majestically.

  • Beautiful Roman gates!!!Beautiful photos too!

    Kisses,

    Irina

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