Lanzo Torinese Railway Station

Site overview

The railway line from Turin reached Lanzo in 1876, and the current station, built between 1913 and 1916, represents an elegant example of Art Nouveau style designed by the engineer Scotti. With direct current electric traction as early as 1921, the railway crosses the Graian Alps through bridges, viaducts, and tunnels, connecting Lanzo, Ceres, and the intermediate hamlets, transforming the valley into an accessible destination for holidaymakers and tourists.

The railway line coming from Turin reached Lanzo in 1876, and the original terminus was located near the Cotonificio Valli di Lanzo (cotton mill). The current station, however, dates back to the years 1913-1916, when the final section was built, reaching Ceres in the heart of the Graian Alps through five tunnels, six bridges, and one viaduct. Starting from 1921, it was among the first railways in the world to adopt direct current electric traction. The stations of Lanzo, Ceres, and the other five intermediate ones were designed by engineer Scotti in Art Nouveau style with the intention of creating an innovative typology inspired by mid-mountain holiday resorts. The Lanzo station is a building with three floors above ground; the facades are finished in stone and brick. On the ground floor, there is a large entrance with a ticket office, first and second-class waiting rooms, a luggage storage area, and the station master’s office, while the upper floors contained housing for the staff.