The Council of Turin and Eurovision Song Contest 2022 host broadcaster, RAI have confirmed the Parco del Valentino (Valentino Park) as the location for Eurovillage. The public space will begin its schedule of events from May 7th and conclude on May 14th.
Parco del Valentino
The Parco del Valentino is the oldest and second largest public park in Turin. First debuted in 1852 and officially opened in 1856, the park expands across 50.5 hectares of green space – plenty of room for the expected 20,000 visitors during Eurovision week.
Eurovillage 2022
Always a hive of activity, the Eurovillage is a key location for Eurovision fans to meet and enjoy everything the locality has to offer away from the main venue. Including being able to watch the shows and see the artists perform for free. This year the official fan zone of Eurovision 2022 will be the Parco del Valentino. Normally the fan village is held in a more enclosed space. Early rumours suggested the Piazza San Carlo as a possible location. However the last two years have shown we need a new normal. Thus a new love for open green space has become the perfect opportunity for Turin’s parkland.
It will be an absolutely non-invasive stage, of great respect for the context in which we find ourselves. We do not know what war scenario we will face on May 7, but the Eurovillage will open in the sign of peace and inclusion. It is a theme that is very close to the heart of the whole council and the mayor. Turin hosts one of the most important events at a time when there are thousands of deaths and refugees in Europe.
Rosanna Purchia, (Councillor for Culture).
The Eurovillage will extend between Corso Massimo D’Azeglio and Corso Vittorio Emanuele II. As well as making use of a second site at the Castello del Valentino. Therefore making the village a safer experience to limit gathering, with it spread across multiple locations around the park.
Events in the Eurovillage
Overall 30 kiosks and clubs will offer a range of entertainment and food to fans during Eurovision week from 7th-14th May. Amongst the kiosks will be local florists, music and a chance to try local ice creams, pastries and other delicacies from the Piedmont region. As well as some interesting sounding Måneskin themed drinks!
The entertainment area will be in the area close to Corso Massimo D’Azeglio and will go live in the afternoon and evening. We are making sure that the Turinese can experience this moment at 360°, participating in cultural and musical events outdoors and in complete safety. It will be an immersive experience, which goes beyond the main show of the event.
Mimmo Carretta, (Councillor of Events).
During the week fans will be able to watch both the Semi-Finals and Grand Final. Two maxi-screens, one inside the city park and one at the Castello del Valentino, will be constructed. Other safety aspects of the outdoor amenities are yet to be finalised, along with the full programme of events each day.
Location
Known as the ‘Green Lung of Turin’, the Parco del Valentino is a natural hotspot along the River Po. The main centre of Turin is within a 30 minute walk of the park. However if the partying catches up with you, then the park is accessible by bike, car or the local bus and tram stops. Most importantly the main Pala Alpitour Eurovision venue is not too far away either. Only 30mins by bus or tram for as little as €1.70 for a one-way trip. So there’s no excuse to not do some exploring while in Turin! Those attending the Opening Ceremony at the Reggia di Venaria can expect a longer, 1hr 10min journey back to the village.
Other attractions
Away from the Eurovision activities the park boasts many other tourist attractions for visitors to enjoy. In the summer months, the River Po opens to boat excursions. As well as being the perfect time to take in the rock garden, the lanterns of love and botanical gardens and see the wildlife making Turin their home.
History & Culture
Those that like a bit of culture and history can visit the Castello del Valentino. Formerly a residence of the House of Savoy and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Also nearby on the riverbank is the Borgo Medievale. Created in 1884 for the World’s Fair, this is an open-air museum modelled on a 15th Century medieval archaeological site. Meanwhile the Società Promotrice di Belle Arti is an exhibition centre rebuilt after WW2. Celebrating the best of Turin’s art and artists with temporary exhibits.
Of course Formula 1 fans will be keen to visit the Eurovillage this year. From 1935 until 1955 the Parco del Valentino was the home of open-wheel motor racing. Back in 1946 before the official founding of the Formula 1 World Championship, it hosted the first ever Formula 1 race. Later in 1948 the park held the Italian Grand Prix, which became the debut race for Ferrari. Many circuit layouts were used during those years throughout the park. Almost unrecognisable to modern eyes enjoying picnics on the former race track today. However one lasting remnant is a park bench dedicated to Ferrari founder, Enzo Ferrari.
Are you planning to visit the 2022 Eurovillage? Let us know! Be sure to stay updated by following @ESCXTRA on Twitter, @escxtra on Instagram and liking our Facebook page for the latest updates! Also, be sure to follow us on Spotify for the latest music from your favourite Eurovision acts. As well as YouTube to see our reactions to the news in the run up to the 2022 contest in Turin!
