Ghosts of Turin: Hidden Spell Exploration Game

Explore Turin at Your Own Pace with a Unique Outdoor Escape Game

The Ghosts of Turin: Hidden Spell Exploration Game offers an unusual way to see the city. Priced at just $8.11 per person, this 1 hour 30 minutes experience provides an engaging alternative to traditional sightseeing. It is designed for those who enjoy self-guided adventures, combining elements of a tour, an escape game, and a treasure hunt. The tour is booked an average of 8 days in advance, highlighting its popularity among those seeking flexible exploration.

This experience is especially suited for travelers who prefer to avoid crowds and long guided groups. No human guide is necessary, and you can start whenever you want, making it perfect for spontaneous plans. The game is played on your smartphone and is available 24/7, allowing you to explore offline, without needing an internet connection. However, a notable limitation is the occasional technical issue, as one review mentions difficulties with activation.

Key Points

• Self-guided outdoor escape game in Turin with no guide or group required
• Approximate duration of 1 hour 30 minutes suited for flexible schedules
• Cost of $8.11 per person with options for group discounts
• Visits multiple historic and esoteric sites such as Statuto Square, Piazza San Carlo, and Ponte Vittorio Emanuele I
• Starting point at Piazza Statuto and ending at the oldest bridge in Turin
• The game features clues and challenges at each stop to learn spooky stories about Turin

Starting Point: Piazza Statuto and Its Obscure Past

The tour begins at Piazza Statuto, once the site of a Roman necropolis, a French execution site, and the location of a devastating fire in 1983. The square’s fountain commemorates workers who died during the construction of the Frejus Rail Tunnel. Known locally as the Black Heart, this place is considered one of Turin’s most obscure areas.

Participants receive directions through their phones to find answers to challenges, which helps them progress to the next spot. The starting point sets a tone of mystery, blending Turin’s historical layers with stories of tragedy and resilience.

Discovering the Santuario della Consolata

The Santuario della Consolata, a notable Marian sanctuary and minor basilica, features prominently in this exploration. Located at the intersection of Via Consolata and Via Carlo Ignazio Giulio, this sacred site is also called La Consla. Visitors will find clues amidst the church’s impressive architecture and religious artworks, which play a part in advancing the game.

This stop invites curiosity about Turin’s spiritual heritage. Participants learn the story of this important religious site while searching for answers, making it both educational and atmospheric.

Exploring the Rondò della Forca

One of Turin’s most visited esoteric sites, the Rondò della Forca, is a key stop in the game. Situated near Piazza dello Statuto, this location has a dark connotation, referencing a historic gallows point. The area where the confluence of Valdocco, Principe Eugenio, and Regina Margherita meet is rich with tales of secret societies and local legends.

The challenge here involves finding details that reveal this area’s mysterious background. The Rondò della Forca adds a layer of intrigue to the route, appealing to those interested in Turin’s hidden stories.

Roman Heritage at Palatine Gate

The Palatine Gate is a striking reminder of Turin’s Roman past. It is one of the best-preserved 1st-century BC Roman gateways worldwide. Close by are remnants of an ancient theatre, both housed within the Archaeological Park opened in 2006.

Participants search around for clues tied to this archaeological site. It offers insight into Turin’s ancient foundations and how the city evolved from its Roman origins into the modern landscape we see today.

The Madama Palace and Its Artistic Legacy

Madama Palace, dating back to the 13th century, gets its name from the widows of 17th-century Dukes of Savoy. The palace has served as a seat of governance, including the Sardinian and Italian Senates in the 19th century. Today, it hosts the Museum of Ancient Arts.

In this stop, players look for answers among the palace’s architecture and artworks. The connection to Turin’s aristocratic history adds depth to the game, making it a fun way to learn about the city’s noble past.

Piazza Castello: The Heart of Turin

Piazza Castello offers a vibrant backdrop with museums, theaters, and cafes lining the square. It is a central hub where participants find clues that lead them onward. The square’s historical significance and lively atmosphere make it a natural highlight of the route.

The game challenges players to observe details and stories embedded in this bustling space, blending cultural exploration with puzzle-solving.

Discovering the Palazzo Trucchi di Levaldigi

Famous for its massive wooden door, the Palazzo Trucchi di Levaldigi dates to the 17th century. This building’s architecture and history are woven into the game’s narrative, inviting players to find specific clues relating to its construction and importance.

This stop emphasizes Turin’s aristocratic architecture and the stories behind its noble residences, adding a touch of grandeur to the adventure.

Piazza San Carlo: Baroque Elegance

Piazza San Carlo stands out as one of the city’s main squares, featuring Baroque architecture. Its names honor Charles Borromeo, and it has historically been called Piazza Reale, Piazza d’Armi, and Place Napoleon.

Participants look for hidden clues in the square’s ornate buildings and lively street life. Learning about its evolving role in Turin’s history makes this a captivating stop within the game.

The Convergence at Via Po and the Historic University

The Via Po, built in 1868 by Amedeo di Castellamonte, marks the confluence of major streets in Piazza Castello. Notable landmarks include the original University of Turin building and the historic Caffè Fiorio.

Players search for clues that connect these historic sites, revealing stories of academics, politics, and social life that shaped Turin’s identity.

The 17th-Century Church and Ponte Vittorio Emanuele I

The first church here, built between 1648-1656, features a single nave and art by Bernardo Vittone. Nearby, the Ponte Vittorio Emanuele I is the city’s oldest and most significant bridge over the Po River. Built in the 15th-19th centuries, it served as a vital gateway into Turin.

This stop combines religious art and engineering, with clues guiding players to understand Turin’s architectural evolution and strategic importance.

Ending at the Historical Bridge

The tour concludes at the Ponte Vittorio Emanuele I, guiding participants to this historic crossing. This bridge’s significance as a major entry point into Turin underscores the city’s blend of history, architecture, and urban development.

The final clues often relate to the city’s development over centuries, leaving players with a sense of connection to Turin’s layered past.

Practicalities and Experience Quality

The Ghosts of Turin game emphasizes full flexibility, allowing participants to start any time, take breaks, and resume later. It is the safest way to explore, with no contact with others needed and the ability to play offline—ideal for social distancing or privacy.

The tour’s main limitation is the potential for technical issues, as at least one review reports difficulty in activating the game due to a lack of support. The experience is designed for individual groups and does not include a physical guide, making it more suitable for independent travelers seeking a personalized adventure.

Accessibility and Booking Information

The tour departs from Piazza Statuto and finishes at Ponte Vittorio Emanuele I, both easily accessible via public transport. Open every day from 12:00 AM to 11:30 PM, the experience suits various schedules. You receive full instructions via the Questo app, and group discounts are available for multiple participants.

Booking typically occurs 8 days in advance, and the experience supports most travelers, including those with service animals. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time.

Final Thoughts on the Ghosts of Turin Experience

The Ghosts of Turin: Hidden Spell Exploration Game offers a cost-effective, flexible, and interactive way to discover Turin’s historic and mysterious sites. Its self-guided format and offline capability make it convenient and safe for independent exploration. The stops cover a good mix of archaeological, religious, and noble landmarks, delivering both educational content and a sense of adventure.

However, travelers should be prepared for possible technical difficulties and understand that there is no live guide to assist. This tour best suits adventurous souls who enjoy puzzles and storytelling, especially those interested in Turin’s more obscure and esoteric lore.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
Since the experience is played on smartphones and involves solving clues, it can be engaging for older children and families. However, young children may need help with the challenges or may not find the game as compelling.

Can I start this tour at any time?
Yes, the tour offers full flexibility, allowing you to start whenever you choose and take breaks as needed.

What happens if I experience a technical issue?
One review mentions difficulty in activating the game. Support is limited, so it’s advisable to ensure your device is compatible and to contact the provider if problems arise.

Is the experience accessible via internet?
No, the game can be played offline, making it convenient for locations with poor signal or for travelers avoiding data charges.