The House of Savoy arose as a powerful family around the year 1000. They were counts, then dukes, then princes, then kings of Italy. But who were they really?

In my first talk I will consider their origins and analyse how they endured centuries of European politics and wars to emerge as the oldest ruling house in Europe.

In my second talk I will discuss the events of the last two centuries. What sort of rulers were the Savoys? What were their passions and intrigues? Which of their actions determined their fall from grace with the Italian people?

Throughout these talks I will also introduce you to some of the Savoy family's beautiful residences and their legacy in Italian architecture.