Pinerolo was long disputed between the House of Savoy and the kingdom of France: in fact, during the 17th century it remained in French hands for 66 years and was a stronghold on the belligerent Savoy border of Cardinal Richelieu. In popular culture, its image is strongly linked to the mysterious Iron Mask who arrived here escorted by the Musketeers narrated by Dumas. Another famous prisoner in Pinerolo was the Sun King's Superintendent of Finances, Nicolas Fouquet.

But Pinerolo is also its charming old town with its shops, medieval houses, vaulted arcades, the cathedral of San Donato and the wonderful panorama from the hill of San Maurizio, the highest part of the city.

ON REQUEST tasting of typical local pastry products at Galup (which in Piedmontese means gluttonous, delicious), a historic company in Pinerolo, where tradition is combined with modern production.