Situated between the historic hamlet of Regio Parco and the Po river, the Manifattura Tabacchi complex has a significant environmental and historic-architectural value. Built in the 18th century, it is safeguarded by MIBACT, the Italian Ministry of Culture, and is one the most ancient factories in the city.
The conversion of the historic Manifattura Tabacchi will allow for the redevelopment of the entire northeastern district of Turin and the re-functionalization of the existing green areas.
The project by Eutropia Architettura + Pininfarina Architecture and Weber Architects, winner of the international competition, envisages a cultural hub with university residences and student services, as well as high-level training rooms, and an archival hub with consultation rooms, a study center, and a storage facility for the State Archives pertaining to the General Directorate of Archives of Turin, Asti, Biella, Cuneo, and Verbania, under the Ministries of Culture and Justice. The residential areas will facilitate the creation of a true interuniversity campus.
Part of the buildings will also accommodate a set of services for local residents, managed by the Città di Torino. The external areas of the Manifattura will be redesigned with gardens, a new network of green pathways, and a large natural square overlooking the river, with the aim of reconnecting the urban fabric with the surrounding environmental systems (the Po river, parks, and natural reserves).