Lingotto Building | Turin

The Lingotto Building (Edificio Lingotto) is an iconic and historic structure located in Turin, Italy. It is one of the most famous examples of 20th-century industrial architecture in the city and an important landmark that reflects Turin’s industrial heritage.

History and Background

Construction: The Lingotto Building was constructed between 1916 and 1923 by the Fiat car company, designed by the architect Giacomo Matté-Trucco. Initially, it was a large automobile factory and served as the headquarters for Fiat for many years.

Purpose: The building was designed to house Fiat’s production facilities, and its name, Lingotto, comes from the building's location near the Lingotto district of Turin. It played a central role in the industrial revolution in Italy, as Fiat was one of the key manufacturers of automobiles in the country at the time.

Architecture

Design Features: The building is an example of rationalist architecture with a strong industrial aesthetic. It features five floors, which were used for different stages of the automobile manufacturing process, such as assembly and painting.

Famous Rooftop Test Track: One of the most distinctive and famous features of the Lingotto building is its rooftop test track. Fiat engineers used the flat roof to test the cars they produced by driving them around the building. This test track became one of the most recognized symbols of the building. The track allows cars to ascend from the factory’s production floors and take a lap around the rooftop. This feature was considered revolutionary at the time, providing an innovative and functional space for testing and showcasing new models.

Transformation: In the 1980s, Fiat ceased its operations in the Lingotto factory, and the building underwent a major restoration and repurposing. The original industrial purpose was gradually replaced by commercial and cultural functions.

Today’s Lingotto Building: A Modern Hub

Today, the Lingotto Building is a multifunctional complex that includes a range of facilities, making it a central part of Turin’s cultural and economic life.

Shopping and Entertainment: The building is home to the Lingotto Shopping Center, which features a variety of stores, restaurants, and cafés, attracting both locals and tourists. The transformation into a modern commercial space preserved the historic charm of the building while integrating new elements to serve as a contemporary hub.

Conference and Cultural Events: The Lingotto Congress Center is an important venue for conferences, exhibitions, and cultural events. The versatile spaces are used for business events, shows, and community gatherings.

Pinacoteca Giovanni e Marella Agnelli: The upper floors of the building house the Pinacoteca Giovanni e Marella Agnelli, an art gallery that features a collection of fine art from the Agnelli family, including works by Giorgio de Chirico, Carlo Carrà, and Mario Sironi.

Hotel and Restaurants: The complex also includes a high-end hotel and a range of dining options, making it a popular destination for visitors and tourists.

Museum: The Lingotto building also features the Fiat Museum, which showcases the history of the company, the evolution of its automobiles, and its impact on Italy’s industrial development.

Innovation and Architecture Hub: Over the years, the Lingotto building has transformed into a symbol of innovation, blending its industrial past with a modern future. It’s an architectural marvel that now houses cutting-edge spaces for business, technology, and design.

Architectural Highlights

Rooftop Track: The rooftop test track is still a key feature of the building, providing a visual link to the building’s industrial history. While the track is no longer used for car testing, its historical significance remains intact.

Atrium: The central atrium of the building is a vast open space that allows natural light to penetrate deep into the building. The atrium is often used for events and exhibitions.

Restoration: The renovation and transformation of the Lingotto building into a modern center was done with a respect for the original architectural style, preserving the historical industrial feel while integrating modern amenities.

Cultural Significance

The Lingotto Building is not only a significant part of Turin's industrial history but also a symbol of urban regeneration. Its transformation from an industrial factory to a multifaceted cultural and commercial center is a reflection of the changing dynamics of post-industrial cities.

It is an architectural landmark that represents the intersection of history, innovation, and modernity. Its ongoing role in cultural and economic life makes it one of the most important landmarks in Turin.

Visiting the Lingotto Building

• Visiting Experience: Visitors can explore the shopping center, art gallery, and museum. The rooftop track is also accessible for visitors, allowing them to walk around the historic space.
• Accessibility: The Lingotto Building is easily accessible by public transportation and offers plenty of facilities for tourists and business travelers.

Conclusion

The Lingotto Building in Turin is a remarkable example of industrial architecture and urban renewal. From its origins as a symbol of Fiat’s industrial success to its current status as a cultural and commercial hub, it stands as a testament to Turin's historical and modern importance. It’s a must-see for architecture lovers, history enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the transformation of post-industrial cities.