Polytechnic University of Turin

The Polytechnic University of Turin (Italian: Politecnico di Torino) is a public research university located in Turin, Italy. It is the oldest Italian public technical university and one of the leading technical universities in Europe.

The Polytechnic University of Turin was established in 1859 as a Technical School for Engineers. The school was founded in application of the Casati law, which established a modern system of education in the newly unified Kingdom of Italy.

The Technical School for Engineers was initially located in the Palazzo Carignano, but it quickly outgrew its space. In 1862, the school moved to its current location in Corso Duca degli Abruzzi.

The school's curriculum was initially focused on the training of civil engineers, but it was soon expanded to include other engineering disciplines, such as mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and chemical engineering. In 1906, the school was formally renamed the Polytechnic Institute of Turin.

The Polytechnic Institute of Turin played a major role in the development of Italian industry in the early 20th century. Its graduates went on to found and lead some of the most important Italian companies, such as Fiat, Pirelli, and Olivetti.

The Polytechnic Institute of Turin also played a leading role in the development of Italian science and technology.

In the second half of the 20th century, the Polytechnic Institute of Turin continued to grow and expand its curriculum. New departments were added in the fields of architecture, design, and planning. In 1991, the school was officially renamed the Polytechnic University of Turin.

Today, the Polytechnic University of Turin is one of the leading technical universities in Europe.

Based on the QS World University Rankings of 2025, Polytechnic University of Turin is positioned as the #241 top university in the world, which makes it the #5 top university in Italy. The university's global rank is improved by 11 points from last year.