OGR Turin Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Site Guide
Date: 03/07/2025
Introduction: OGR Turin’s History, Cultural Significance, and Visitor Overview
The Officine Grandi Riparazioni (OGR) in Turin, Italy, stands as a symbol of the city’s industrial legacy and its visionary transformation into a contemporary hub for culture and innovation. Constructed between 1885 and 1895 as the largest railway repair workshop in Turin, OGR was pivotal to the city’s rapid growth and technological progress during the 19th and 20th centuries (OGR Cult; Wikipedia). Its distinctive H-shaped architecture, imposing brick façades, and expansive interiors remain a testament to the optimism of Italy’s industrial age.
After a period of decline and abandonment in the 1990s, OGR was saved from demolition by a comprehensive restoration led by Fondazione CRT. The €100 million redevelopment, completed in just under three years, harmoniously preserved the historical industrial character while integrating advanced technologies, accessibility, and sustainability (Torino Art Week; Smart Tourism Capital). Today, OGR is a vibrant cultural epicenter, hosting international art exhibitions, concerts, immersive digital experiences, and supporting startups and creative industries (Flawless Life; Finestre sull’Arte). Its location at Corso Castelfidardo 22 makes it easily accessible and welcoming to visitors of all ages and abilities (Turismo Torino).
Whether you are passionate about history, art, architecture, or innovation, OGR Turin offers a compelling journey through the city’s industrial past and its dynamic present, making it a must-see destination for visitors to Turin (Smart Tourism Capital).
Table of Contents
- Discover OGR Turin: A Must-Visit Historical Site
- Origins and Construction
- OGR’s Role in Turin’s Industrial Development
- Decline and Redevelopment
- Architectural and Industrial Heritage
- Cultural Significance and Programming
- Visiting OGR: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility
- Architectural Highlights & Facilities
- Cultural Events & Food Experiences
- Innovation and Coworking Spaces
- Visitor Tips and Nearby Attractions
- OGR’s Urban Impact and Smart Tourism
- Sustainability and Community Impact
- FAQs About Visiting OGR
- Plan Your Visit
- References
Discover OGR Turin: A Must-Visit Historical Site
The Officine Grandi Riparazioni (OGR) is more than a preserved industrial complex—it is a living, breathing space where Turin’s engineering heritage meets avant-garde cultural and technological innovation. A visit to OGR is an opportunity to experience the city’s transformation through the lens of architecture, art, and enterprise.
Origins and Construction
OGR was constructed between 1885 and 1895, covering 35,000 square meters, with its iconic H-shaped structure comprising two 400-meter-long wings linked by a central transept. The massive “Duomo” area, rising 19 meters, was designed to accommodate the vertical maintenance of locomotives (OGR Cult; Artsupp). As the main railway repair workshop, OGR supported Turin’s emergence as an industrial powerhouse.
OGR’s Role in Turin’s Industrial Development
For over a century, OGR was instrumental to the city’s economy, maintaining Italy’s expanding railway network and fostering the growth of surrounding neighborhoods (Torino Art Week). It contributed to Turin’s reputation for engineering excellence and technological innovation.
Decline and Redevelopment
With changes in transportation and the decline of heavy industry, OGR closed in the early 1990s. Facing potential demolition, the site was recognized for its historic value and acquired by Fondazione CRT in 2013. A €100 million restoration balanced the preservation of original features with the addition of modern amenities and sustainability measures (Torino Art Week; Artsupp).
Architectural and Industrial Heritage
OGR remains one of Italy’s premier examples of 19th-century industrial architecture. Its brickwork, iron trusses, and preserved machinery serve as a living museum, while adaptive reuse has transformed it into a dynamic venue for culture and innovation (Turismo Torino).
Cultural Significance and Programming
Since reopening, OGR has become a multidisciplinary space with OGR Cult and OGR Tech, offering exhibitions, concerts, immersive installations, theater, and innovation labs (Artsupp; OGR Torino Calendar). Major international events and partnerships have made OGR a magnet for global visitors (My Art Guides).
Visiting OGR: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility
- Location: Corso Castelfidardo 22, Turin (Artsupp).
- Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM–7:00 PM (last entry 6:30 PM). Closed Mondays and some holidays. Hours can vary for special events—always check the official calendar.
- Tickets: Standard entry €8–€15, with discounts for students, seniors, and Torino+Piemonte Card holders. Some events are free; advance booking is recommended. Buy online or at the venue.
- Guided Tours: Available on select days and by request.
- Accessibility: OGR is fully accessible with ramps, elevators, and adapted restrooms (Turismo Torino).
- Facilities: Bookshop, cafes, event spaces, Wi-Fi, cloakroom, and accessible restrooms.
- Travel: Excellent public transport links and nearby parking; easily reached by bicycle or on foot.
Architectural Highlights & Facilities
The OGR’s monumental H-shaped structure combines preserved industrial features with modern amenities (Flawless Life):
- Officina Nord: Venue for large-scale concerts, exhibitions, and performances.
- Officina Sud: Dedicated to innovation, startups, and coworking.
- Snodo: Central hub for food and drink, offering a bistro, refined restaurant, and bar.
- Baobar: A quirky space for social gatherings, previously a flower shop and disco-bar.
Meeting rooms, workshop spaces, and flexible event areas allow OGR to host a variety of functions simultaneously.
Cultural Events & Food Experiences
Art Exhibitions
OGR regularly hosts international exhibitions, such as Cyprien Gaillard’s “Retinal Rivalry” during Torino Art Week 2024 (Finestre sull’Arte). Past shows have explored themes like AI and authenticity, with works by leading artists.
Concerts & Performances
OGR has welcomed global music legends—Kraftwerk, Giorgio Moroder, The Chemical Brothers, James Blake, and more—across genres from electronic to classical (Setlist.fm).
Conferences & Workshops
OGR is a sought-after venue for industry events, such as the “BEYOND – Iveco Group Days,” and upcoming scientific congresses (Financial Post; ESB 2025). Workshops, interactive installations, and family activities are also regularly featured (Finestre sull’Arte).
Dining and Social Spaces
- Snodo: Bistro, refined restaurant (Officina del Gusto), and bar—all designed for a range of dining experiences (Flawless Life).
- Baobar: Known for its vintage ambiance and colorful history.
Innovation and Coworking Spaces
Officina Sud, opening soon, will provide 9,000 square meters for startups, creative industries, and innovation labs, cementing OGR’s role as a center for entrepreneurship (Flawless Life).
Visitor Tips and Nearby Attractions
- Family and Groups: Many exhibitions and events are suitable for all ages; group visits and educational workshops can be arranged.
- Public Transport: OGR is well connected by bus and tram; visit the Turin mobility app for planning.
- Nearby Attractions: Polytechnic University, GAM (Modern and Contemporary Art Gallery), Torre Intesa Sanpaolo, and Turin’s historic center are within walking distance (Guida Torino).
- Weather: OGR’s climate-controlled spaces ensure comfort year-round (Wanderlog).
OGR’s Urban Impact and Smart Tourism
OGR’s redevelopment exemplifies Turin’s approach to smart, sustainable urban renewal. The preservation of industrial architecture alongside the introduction of digital innovation and cultural programming has revitalized the Cenisia district and contributed to Turin’s recognition as the 2025 European Capital of Smart Tourism (Smart Tourism Capital; Datappeal). OGR’s commitment to inclusivity, sustainability, and digital engagement makes it a model for cities worldwide (Transition Pathways).
Sustainability and Community Impact
OGR’s adaptive reuse strategy minimizes environmental impact and actively supports Turin’s goal of carbon neutrality by 2030 (Datappeal). Its cultural programming, educational partnerships, and support for startups foster economic and social vitality (EGlobal Travel Media). OGR also collaborates with international art festivals, further amplifying Turin’s global reputation (Finestre sull’Arte).
FAQs About Visiting OGR
What are OGR’s visiting hours?
Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM–7:00 PM; last entry at 6:30 PM. Closed Mondays. Some events may have special hours—check the official website.
How do I buy tickets?
Purchase online via the OGR website or at the venue. Discounts available with the Torino+Piemonte Card.
Is OGR accessible?
Yes; full accessibility with ramps, elevators, and adapted restrooms. More info on Turismabile.
Are there guided tours?
Yes, available by reservation; check the website for schedules.
Can I take photos?
Photography is allowed except in certain exhibitions—look for signage or ask staff.
Is OGR suitable for families?
Many events are family-friendly; check programming for details.
What’s nearby?
GAM (Modern Art Gallery), Polytechnic University, Torre Intesa Sanpaolo, and historic Turin landmarks.
Plan Your Visit
- Check OGR’s official website for current exhibitions, events, visiting hours, and ticketing.
- Download the Audiala app for cultural itineraries and real-time event updates.
- Follow OGR on social media for the latest news, or subscribe to their newsletter.
- Explore related articles on other Turin cultural and historical sites to enrich your visit.
References
- OGR Cult, n.d., Officine Grandi Riparazioni Turin (OGR Cult)
- Torino Art Week, n.d., OGR Turin Cultural Hub (Torino Art Week)
- Artsupp, n.d., OGR Officine Grandi Riparazioni (Artsupp)
- Turismo Torino, n.d., OGR Torino (Turismo Torino)
- Wikipedia contributors, 2025, Officine Grandi Riparazioni di Torino (Wikipedia)
- Flawless Life, 2024, OGR Officine Grandi Riparazioni Turin (Flawless Life)
- Finestre sull’Arte, 2024, Exhibitions at the OGR Turin (Finestre sull’Arte)
- Setlist.fm, 2025, James Blake at OGR Turin (Setlist.fm)
- Financial Post, 2022, BEYOND – Iveco Group Days at OGR (Financial Post)
- ESB 2025, n.d., Conference Dinner at OGR (ESB 2025)
- Guida Torino, n.d., OGR Turin Information (Guida Torino)
- Smart Tourism Capital, 2025, Turin European Capital of Smart Tourism (Smart Tourism Capital)
- Smart Tourism Capital, 2025, Smart and Sustainable Guide Visiting Torino (Smart Tourism Capital)
- EGlobal Travel Media, 2025, Turin Smart Tourism Leadership (EGlobal Travel Media)
- Trek Zone, n.d., Officine Grandi Riparazioni Turin (Trek Zone)
- Transition Pathways, n.d., Torino Finalist 2025 European Capital Smart Tourism (Transition Pathways)
