The Mole Antonelliana is one of Turin’s best-known landmarks and home to the National Cinema Museum. Inside the tall brick building, the museum traces cinema from early image-making and film equipment to later productions, with interactive displays and cinematic objects along the way. A glass elevator travels through the central space to an observation level about 85 metres up, where you can look across Turin and, on clear days, toward the Alps. Allow time for both the exhibits and the view.
A landmark built around a central space
The Mole Antonelliana is a historic brick tower in Turin, now home to the National Cinema Museum. Its scale is clearest from inside: the museum’s different levels open around a tall central space, giving the building itself a major role in the visit.
The structure began as a synagogue project and was later acquired by the city. Alessandro Antonelli designed the building, whose construction took place between 1863 and 1889. It is 167.5 metres tall.
Cinema from early images to film
The museum follows the development of cinema through historic objects and displays. Early cameras and film equipment help explain how moving images were made, alongside older ways of presenting pictures. Interactive installations and different room settings give you more to engage with than display cases alone.
The collection also includes cinematic props and material connected with well-known films. Special exhibitions can add a focused look at a filmmaker or subject, so check the current programme if you are planning around a particular exhibition.
The elevator and observation level
A glass elevator rises through the building’s interior to an observation level about 85 metres above the ground. The ride gives you a view of the museum’s central space as well as a changing perspective on the structure. At the top, you can look out over Turin and the surrounding area; the Alps are visible on clear days.
The museum and elevator are separate parts of the experience to plan for when booking. Advance tickets are recommended, especially if you want access to both. Give yourself enough time to explore the exhibits before or after the ride.
Preguntas frecuentes
What is inside the Mole Antonelliana?
The building houses the National Cinema Museum, with collections on cinema history, early cameras and film equipment, interactive displays and cinematic objects.
Can you take an elevator to the top of the Mole Antonelliana?
Yes. A glass elevator travels through the central interior to an observation level about 85 metres high.
How long should you spend at the Mole Antonelliana?
Allow several hours if you want to explore the museum’s rooms and take the elevator. A visit of about 3 to 5 hours is a reasonable plan.
Can you see the Alps from the Mole Antonelliana?
The observation level looks across Turin, and the Alps can be seen on clear days.
