Turin: Italy's first capital, preceding Rome by a decade

When people think of the capital of Italy, their minds often go straight to Rome. However, the Eternal City was actually the third capital of the unified country. The first capital of Italy, located further north, was Turin—historically significant as the seat of power for the Savoy dynasty and an ancient centre of the Kingdom of Sardinia. In this article, we’ll explore why Turin held this prestigious role and the reasons behind the eventual relocation of the capital to Rome.

Why was Turin the first capital of Italy?

The choice of Turin as the first capital of the Kingdom of Italy was not random; it resulted from a series of historical, political, and strategic factors. Before unification, Turin was the capital of the Kingdom of Sardinia, one of the most influential pre-unification states on the European political scene.

After unification, which, as is well known, took place in 1861, the borders of the Kingdom of Italy did not include parts of the present-day north-east (Veneto, Trentino-Alto Adige, and Friuli-Venezia Giulia), as well as what remained of the Papal States, centred around Rome. While awaiting the transfer of the capital to the city of the Pope, Turin served as the capital from 1861 to 1865.

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Florence, the second capital of Italy

In 1865, the capital of the Kingdom of Italy was moved from Turin to Florence. This decision was influenced by an agreement with Napoleon III, in which Italy committed to not attacking the Papal States. The Tuscan city, then relatively small, was gradually reorganised to accommodate its new role.

The so-called 'resanamento of Florence' led to the demolition of the city walls and some medieval neighbourhoods to make way for wider boulevards and new districts. Some of the current features of Florence date back to this period, particularly in relation to the construction of new squares and streets.

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The Breach of Porta Pia and the final choice of Rome

Taking advantage of the fall of Napoleon III, the decision was made to annex Rome to the Kingdom of Italy. The climactic event of the Capture of Rome is known as the Breach of Porta Pia, as the troops entered the city through that area on 20 September 1870.

Rome was proclaimed the capital of Italy shortly thereafter, in 1871, marking the beginning of a long-standing issue with the Catholic Church while also concluding the process of the establishment of the Kingdom of Italy.

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Brindisi and Salerno: two 'capitals' during the war

Rome was the third capital of Italy, but—albeit for a few months—not the last. During the World War, Brindisi and Salerno played significant roles, temporarily serving as capitals of Italy. After the armistice of 8 September 1943, King Vittorio Emanuele III and the government decided to flee to Brindisi in Puglia, as southern Italy had already been liberated by Allied forces.

The King arrived first in Pescara by car and then made his way to Brindisi by sea. Thus, even if only for a brief period, the King and the government were based at the Swabian Castle in the city. From February to July 1944, Salerno also served as the capital, albeit not formally recognised, with several key ministries housed in various buildings throughout the city. It was only on 15 July 1944 that the capital returned to Rome.

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