On the right bank of the Tiber River, opposite Campus Martius, between the Borgo Pio and Prati districts of Rome, stands the unmissable Castel Sant’ Angelo. Built as the tomb of the Roman Emperor Hadrian, this historical building has a fascinating history that dates back centuries, with various modernizations and changes having been made through the ages. From fortress to prison to a top tourist destination, the Cast el Sant’Angelo is a must see destination for history buffs, or simply those looking to appreciate excellent architecture and wonderful views over Rome.

Discovering the history of Castel Sant’Angelo

From imperial mausoleum to papal fortress, Castel Sant'Angelo conceals centuries of history, secret passages and legends. Join us as we delve into the fascinating history of one of Rome’s most important historical landmarks, a place of legends with breathtaking views over the Eternal City.

Castel Sant’Angelo: changes through the centuries

The building was initially built as a mausoleum for Roman Emperor Hadrian and his family back in 139 AD. His ashes, along with those of his wife and children, were all placed deep within the Castel Sant’Angelo. During the Middle Ages it was converted into a fortress and became an important strategic point for Roman warfare.

The legend of Archangel Michael

To understand why the castle became known as Sant’Angelo we must cast ourselves back to a plague ridden Rome. Due to the miserable conditions that the people of Rome were facing, Pope Gregory organised a penitential procession to help end the epidemic and the misery, from which he saw the Archangel Michael brandishing his sword at the top of the Mole Adriana. The Pope took this as a divine sign that the epidemic would soon be over, and so it was.

Visiting today

After a long restoration campaign, Castel Sant’Angelo was reopened as a museum.  Visitors can enjoy the open air architecture, the restored shops, a wonderful collection of artworks including frescoes, statues as well as the Papal apartments complete with original historic furnishings. The gardens also offer a pleasant respite and unique views.

Works of art

The wonderful and huge collection of art is nearly all accessible to the public. Visitors can enjoy Renaissance paintings, statues and frescoes donated by private collectors, as well as fragments of Hadrian’s tomb.

Ponte Sant’Angelo

A bridge connecting the Castel Sant’Angelo to the city built by the Emperor Hadrian, used by Christian pilgrims to make their way to St. Peter’s Basilica.  Ten angel sculptures, commissioned by the Pope during the Renaissance, sit along either side of the bridge adding to its grandeur.

Passetto di Borgo

An elevated 800 metre long passageway that links the Castel Sant’Angelo with Vatican City.  Built in 1277, with the purpose of being an escape route for Popes in the event of attack.

The viewpoints

The Castel Sant’Angelo offers 3 amazing viewpoints for visitors to enjoy.  The main viewpoint is the rooftop terrace decorated with angel statues from which visitors can enjoy spectacular panoramic views over Rome’s skyline and the city’s most iconic landmarks. These include Vatican City and gardens, St. Peter’s Basilica, the Colosseum, and the beautiful dome of the Pantheon. The castle’s terraces offer a fascinating view of the courtyards and the cylindrical tower, providing an intriguing insight into the castle’s architecture.

When to go?

Castel Sant’Angelo is open from Sunday to Tuesday all year round and welcomes over a million visitors each year, making it one of Rome’s most important attractions.  Entrance is free for everyone on the first Sunday of every month, all you need to do is show up. On other days, its best to pre book your tickets before you arrive.

Transport at Fiumicino airport

At Fiumicino airport you will also find excellent transport connections with the train station located near the arrivals and departure terminals, offering regular connections to Rome for easy onward travel to the rest of Italy.

Shop&Fly at Fiumicino

If your itinerary to discover the secrets of Castel Sant’Angelo includes departure (or a stopover) from Rome Fiumicino airport, take advantage of the Shop&Fly Service: choose and purchase your favourite products online at competitive prices and collect them comfortably at the airport, enjoying a 10% discount (cannot be combined with other offers).

With a rich and long history and impressive architecture, a visit to Castel Sant’Angelo in Rome makes for a great day out for all the family. Unique panoramic views over the Eternal City from the viewpoints, exquisite art from throughout the ages and an in-depth insight into a building that has stood the test of time and adapted to its surroundings. So, the next time you are in Rome, take a stroll over the Ponte Sant’Angelo to the impressive castle that awaits.

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