Various parts of the Reggia della Venaria, Palace of Venaria in Venaria Reale, near Turin in Piedmont are now open to the public for the first time after restoration works.
A former residence of the Royal House of Savoy, the palace reopened after a winter closure. It is one of largest royal residences in the world.
For the first time since 1876, visitors will be able to see 10 surviving 17th-century cycle canvases designed by Emanuele Tesauro in the Chapel of St. Hubertus. The pictorial cycle is dedicated to St. Paul the Apostle.
Also, for the first time, visitors can see the private apartments of the Duchess of Savoy, Marie Jeanne Baptiste of Savoy-Nemours, who acted as the Regent of Savoy. The 17th-century rooms have been refurbished with furniture, tapestries and paintings. More than 60 17th-century works of art are on display from the collection of Prince Eugene of Savoy, including masterpieces by Anthony van Dyck, Francesco Albani and Guido Reni. Sculptures, sofas, stools, paintings and benches have been added to the royal apartments of Victor Amadeus II, Duke of Savoy.
The addition of contemporary furniture, art and tapestries donated by individuals and organisations will allow visitors to appreciate the lavish stuccowork and frescoes of the palace in all their splendour.
