Piedmont Region
Northwestern Italy’s second-largest region by area, home to Turin and a crucial economic hub with deep Alpine and Mediterranean connections.
At a glance
Piedmont is a region of 4.4 million inhabitants spanning northwestern Italy, bordered by France, Switzerland, and four Italian regions. Turin serves as both administrative and historical capital. The region ranks second in area on the Italian peninsula and accounts for approximately 10 percent of national exports and 5 percent of national GDP.
History
Piedmont’s name derives from its geographical position at the foot of the Alps. The region has served as a crucial crossroads between Italy, France, and Switzerland, shaping its distinctive character. Turin emerged as the region’s primary center, establishing itself as both political and cultural heart.
What you see
The region encompasses diverse landscapes: Alpine peaks to the north and west, fertile plains toward Lombardy and Emilia-Romagna, and Mediterranean influences from Liguria to the south. This geographical variety is reflected in the architecture and settlement patterns across eight provinces and the metropolitan city of Turin.
Cultural significance
Piedmont ranks fourth nationally in exports and fifth in GDP value, demonstrating substantial economic importance. Per capita income exceeds the Italian average. The region participates in two major supranational frameworks: the Alps-Mediterranean Euroregion and the Alpine Macroregion, positioning it as a vital bridge between Mediterranean and Alpine Europe.
Key facts
- Population: 4,377,941 inhabitants
- Area: Second-largest Italian region
- Capital: Turin (Metropolitan City)
- Provinces: Alessandria, Asti, Biella, Cuneo, Novara, Vercelli, Verbano-Cusio-Ossola
- Official website: http://www.regione.piemonte.it/
- Phone: 011 4321111
- Address: Piazza Castello, 165, Turin
- Coordinates: 45.0693626, 7.692986
Practical information
Piedmont functions as Italy’s administrative region; visitors typically base themselves in Turin or other provincial cities. The regional government offices are located in central Turin. Check the official website for specific departmental information and services.
Getting there
Turin is served by Caselle International Airport and major rail connections to Milan, Genoa, and France. The region benefits from extensive road networks linking to Switzerland via Alpine passes and to France through border crossings in the western valleys.
Sources & resources
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