The Mole Antonelliana stands as the primary symbol of Turin and a recognized emblem of Italy globally. This iconic monument appears on various euro coins and was featured in the official logo of the 2006 Olympic Games. Towering at 167.5 meters, it is the tallest structure in central Turin.

For many years, the Mole held the title of the highest stone building in Europe. However, during renovations in the twentieth century, the use of ferroconcrete and steel beams led to the loss of its "only stone" distinction. The tower is named after the architect Alessandro Antonelli.

Initially, the Mole was designed to serve as the synagogue of Turin. Following the proclamation of religious freedom in Italy in 1848, the Jewish community purchased the land for this purpose. The original design for the synagogue was only 47 meters tall, but after Antonelli was appointed as the architect, the plans underwent significant changes. Construction began in 1863 but halted six years later at a height of 70 meters due to financial issues.

In 1873, the city of Turin acquired the land and the partially built structure, allowing Antonelli to resume his work. The architectural style blended neo-Gothic and neoclassical elements. Throughout the construction, the architect made several modifications, resulting in the Mole's height increasing from an intended 113 meters to 146 meters by 1884, even without a steeple.

Following an earthquake in Turin, the Mole was completed four years later, reaching 163.35 meters. The steeple's upper portion was finalized posthumously by Antonelli's son, Costanzo, and his colleague, Crescentino Caselli. The official inauguration took place on April 10, 1889, featuring a statue known as Genius, which is approximately four meters tall and crowns the structure, bringing its total height to 167.5 meters. The residents of Turin affectionately refer to this golden statue as an "angel."

Today, the Mole Antonelliana is home to one of Italy's most popular museums—the National Museum of Cinema. Visitors can also take an elevator to the roof to enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the nearby towering mountains that reach 4,000 meters in height.