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Turin Cathedral (Duomo di San Giovanni)

4.6
·7k reviews·Torino, Italy

Turin Cathedral, home to the famous Shroud replica, offers serene Renaissance architecture and rich Christian art, free to explore.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Friday mornings

Serene atmosphere, no queues

CrowdLow
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vue depuis le chevet

Turin Cathedral (Duomo di San Giovanni)

Best Time

Friday mornings

Serene atmosphere, no queues

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Turin Cathedral, home to the famous Shroud replica, offers serene Renaissance architecture and rich Christian art, free to explore.

4.6
(7k reviews)

"A serene and beautiful cathedral, though the Shroud experience may not meet all expectations."

Vertical photo
TIP

Manage Shroud Expectations

The Shroud is a replica behind glass. The original is rarely accessible.

Enjoy the Art & Ambiance

Appreciate the cathedral's understated architecture and fabulous paintings.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Shroud of Turin Replica

Shroud of Turin Replica

Adjacent Chapel

See a replica of the famous Shroud, displayed above its secure case. An unforgettable, albeit indirect, encounter.

Cathedral Architecture

Cathedral Architecture

Main Nave

Admire the understated elegance of the cathedral's architecture, featuring a soaring dome and intricate chapels.

Christian Art Collection

Christian Art Collection

Chapels

Explore fabulous paintings and significant Christian art pieces, including a tooth of John the Baptist.

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Planning Your Visit

Shroud of Turin Expectations

Manage expectations for the Shroud of Turin. While the cathedral is free and serene, the Shroud itself is a replica displayed behind glass, not the original. The actual Shroud is rarely accessible.

Timing Your Visit

Visit on a weekday morning for a serene experience with no queues. Friday mornings around 11 am are noted as particularly quiet and enjoyable for exploring the cathedral and its exhibits.

Best Times

When
Friday mornings
Why
Serene atmosphere, no queues
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Quiet exploration
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Manage Shroud Expectations

The Shroud is a replica behind glass. The original is rarely accessible. Reddit

Enjoy the Art & Ambiance

Appreciate the cathedral's understated architecture and fabulous paintings. Reddit

Free Admission

Entry to the cathedral is free, making it an accessible cultural stop. Reddit

Educational Video

Watch the informative video about the Shroud (subtitles available). Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

Manage Shroud Expectations

The Shroud is a replica behind glass. The original is rarely accessible. Reddit

Enjoy the Art & Ambiance

Appreciate the cathedral's understated architecture and fabulous paintings. Reddit

Free Admission

Entry to the cathedral is free, making it an accessible cultural stop. Reddit

Educational Video

Watch the informative video about the Shroud (subtitles available). Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(7k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find Turin Cathedral to be a serene and architecturally beautiful place, offering a peaceful atmosphere and impressive Christian art. While the free admission is appreciated, many express disappointment regarding the Shroud of Turin, noting that only a replica is displayed and the original is rarely accessible.

"Despite being the cathedral, it is less opulent and ornate than other churches in the city. Paintings are fabulous. The ambience is not crowded."

Percy Chang

"The cathedral is worth a visit , its architecture is understated, and the atmosphere is serene. But when it comes to the Shroud of Turin, it’s a complete farce. Prepare to be disappointed. You’re made to wait in silence, only to be led in front of a glass wall.
And after all that, what do you get? Just a blown-up copy of a 127-year-old photo taken by Secondo Pia. The actual shroud is locked away in a vault, only accessible through the Royal Palace (with paid admission), and even then, you don’t get to see it. Waiting an hour for this feels harsh. The whole setup lacks transparency and honesty."

Big Dream

"An amazing experience seeing the replica of the Shroud of Turin, kept just above the actual shroud, which is in its case. Also saw one of the teeth of John the Baptist and great Christian art."

Kevin Stickevers

What People Like

Serene atmosphere
Fabulous paintings
Architectural beauty

What People Dislike

Shroud replica disappointment

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Turin Cathedral (Duomo di San Giovanni) is centrally located in Turin, Italy. It's easily accessible by public transport, including buses and trams that stop nearby. Many visitors also find it a pleasant walk from other major attractions in the city center. Reddit

Parking in the immediate vicinity of the cathedral can be challenging due to its central location. It's recommended to use public transportation or park in a nearby paid parking garage and walk. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, general admission to Turin Cathedral is free. You can enter and explore the main areas of the church without purchasing a ticket. Reddit

The cathedral typically opens in the morning and closes in the early evening. It's best to check the most current opening hours before your visit, as they can vary. Reddit

Viewing the replica of the Shroud of Turin within the cathedral is generally included with free admission. However, access to the original Shroud is extremely limited and not part of the standard cathedral visit. Reddit

The actual Shroud of Turin is kept in a vault and is only accessible through the Royal Palace (Palazzo Reale) with paid admission, and even then, direct viewing is not guaranteed. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Visitors report seeing a replica of the Shroud behind glass, which is a copy of an old photograph. While some find it an amazing experience, others feel it's a 'farce' due to the lack of access to the original. Reddit

The cathedral is often described as having a serene and not crowded ambiance, especially during weekday mornings. Reddit

The cathedral features fabulous paintings and great Christian art in its chapels, contributing to its rich historical and architectural beauty. Reddit

Yes, an educational video about the Shroud of Turin is available, and it includes subtitles, making it accessible to a wider audience. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Turin Cathedral is a place of worship and does not have restaurants or cafes inside. However, the surrounding area in Turin's city center offers numerous dining options. Reddit

The area around Turin Cathedral is filled with trattorias, cafes, and restaurants offering local Piedmontese cuisine. You can easily find places for a quick bite or a full meal. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally permitted inside Turin Cathedral, but it's always respectful to check for any specific signage or ask church officials. Be mindful of others and avoid using flash, especially during services. Reddit

The elegant facade and the soaring dome are great for exterior shots. Inside, focus on the architectural details, the chapels, and the artwork. The area around the Shroud replica can also be photographed, keeping in mind the respectful nature of the site. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

Families with Kids

Turin Cathedral offers a free and relatively calm experience for families. While the Shroud replica might not hold the attention of very young children, the cathedral's art and architecture can be engaging. The availability of an educational video with subtitles can also be a plus for older children interested in history. Reddit

It's advisable to prepare children beforehand about the nature of the Shroud display to manage expectations. The serene atmosphere means it's a good place for a quiet visit, perhaps as part of a broader city exploration where children can also enjoy Turin's parks and piazzas.

Budget Travelers

Turin Cathedral is an excellent destination for budget travelers as admission is free. It offers a significant cultural and historical experience without any cost. Reddit

Visitors can spend time admiring the architecture, viewing the art, and learning about the Shroud of Turin through the replica and educational video. It's a perfect stop for those looking to immerse themselves in Turin's heritage without spending money on entry fees.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Shroud of Turin: Reality vs. Expectation

The Shroud of Turin is arguably the most famous relic associated with Turin Cathedral, drawing many visitors hoping to see the actual burial cloth of Jesus. However, it's crucial to understand that the Duomo di San Giovanni Battista primarily displays a replica of the Shroud. This replica is a copy of a photograph taken by Secondo Pia in 1898, which revealed the detailed image on the cloth. Reddit

The actual Shroud is kept in a secure vault and is rarely put on public display. Access to it is highly restricted and typically requires special arrangements through the Royal Palace, often involving paid admission and still no guarantee of viewing. Many visitors express disappointment upon realizing they are only seeing a copy, leading to feelings of being misled. Reddit

Despite the limited access to the original, the replica and the accompanying educational materials offer a glimpse into the history and mystery surrounding this significant artifact. Visitors are advised to manage their expectations and appreciate the cathedral for its architectural beauty and other artistic treasures as well. Reddit

Architectural and Artistic Significance

Turin Cathedral, officially the Cattedrale di San Giovanni Battista, is a significant example of Renaissance architecture in Turin. While perhaps less opulent than some other Italian cathedrals, its understated elegance and soaring dome are immediately striking. The interior features a peaceful and sacred atmosphere, adorned with intricate chapels and a collection of fabulous paintings and Christian art. Reddit

Beyond the Shroud, the cathedral houses other notable elements, including the tomb of Saint John the Baptist's tooth, a testament to its historical and religious importance. The architectural design emphasizes a sense of solemnity and devotion, making it a place of quiet contemplation. Reddit

Visitors often praise the cathedral for its architectural beauty and the serene ambiance it offers, providing a welcome respite from the bustling city. It's a space where history, art, and faith converge, offering a rich experience for those who appreciate religious art and architecture. Reddit