Castle of Agliè

Agliè's main attraction is its Castello Ducale, one of the Residences Of The Royal House Of Savoy, listed in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list. Dating from the 12th century, originally a possession of the counts of San Martino. In the 17th century it was turned into a rich residence by count Filippo d'Agliè, but was ravaged during the French invasion of 1706. In 1765 it was acquired by Charles Emmanuel III of Savoy and sold it to his son Benedetto of Savoy who had it radically renewed ten years later, under design by Ignazio Birago di Bòrgaro.

Thenceforth it was a summer residence for the Kings of Sardinia. It was sold to the Italian state in 1939. It has a monumental façade with two stairs and a fountain; the interior includes 300 rooms, mostly provided with contemporary furniture. The castle is surrounded by large English- and Italian-style gardens. It was used as the location for the Italian series Elisa di Rivombrosa as Rivombrosa.

Other Sights Include:

• Church of Santa Marta, a notable example of Baroque architecture by Costanzo Michela
• Parrocchiale di San Massimo, annexed to the castle
• Villa Meleto, a 19th century countryside residence used by poet Guido Gozzano
• Church of San Gaudenzio, where Gozzano is buried.