Presentation of the book entitled "La Galleria alle Tribune"
SATURDAY 12 MAY 2007, 11.00 a.m.

The presentation will be introduced by the Superintendent for Historical, Artistic and Ethno-anthropological Heritage of Piedmont, Carla Enrica Spantigati. Within the framework of the 9th edition of Culture Week (12-20 May 2007), the Superintendency for Architectural Heritage and Landscape of Piedmont is proud to present the volume entitled “La Galleria alle Tribune” at Agliè Castle, published by Celid and edited by Daniela Biancolini. The aim of this book is to illustrate the construction phases of the connection wing between the Castle and the parochial church through the analysis of the plans preserved at the Historical Archives of the Superintendency for Architectural Heritage and Landscape of Piedmont and the State Archive of Turin.
Beginning from the second half of the 18th century, the works were supervised by the architect Ignazio Birago di Borgaro, on commission from the King of Sardinia, with the aim of erecting the spectacular suspended path reserved for the sovereign and his close entourage to participate in the religious functions from the Royal Gallery, located on the counter-façade of the Church.
The structure, which is unique to this region, is also a rarity on a more widespread territorial scale. It is not only the fifth court of the square, but it also represents the symbolic element of a link between temporal and spiritual power, analogous to what was built in Turin with the connection between the Cathedral and the Royal Palace through the Chapel of the Shroud.

The book contains illustrations of the recent restoration and restructuring works which were completed in 2004, along with the iconographic choices for the decoration of the gallery, with particular reference to the commissioning by Queen Maria Cristina di Borbone of portraits of the knights decorated with the Collar of the Most Holy Annunciation. The tunnel to the galleries is open to visitors every day from 8.30 a.m. to 6.30 p.m. until the end of May 2007.

Entry to the presentation is free of charge, subject to seating availability. For information please contact the Castle Management office (011 52 20419). Please publish this press release.

The Management of the Castle of Agliè