Mausoleum of Hadrian, Imperial mausoleum at Parco Adriano, Rome, Italy
The Mausoleum of Hadrian is a cylindrical stone structure standing along the Tiber River in Rome with multiple interior levels connected by a spiral ramp to the burial chamber. The building was later reinforced with fortifications and now houses museum galleries displaying various collections.
Emperor Hadrian commissioned this tomb between 134 and 139 CE as a burial place initially housing several Roman emperors. During the Middle Ages it was converted into a fortress and later served various purposes including as a papal refuge.
The structure began as an imperial tomb and later transformed into a fortress serving multiple purposes throughout the centuries. Today visitors see the building used as a museum space displaying Roman art and historical collections that reflect its layered past.
The site sits directly along the river and is easily reached on foot, with interior spaces accessible by stairs and ramps. It is worth planning enough time to explore the different levels and collections at a comfortable pace.
A hidden passageway called the Passetto di Borgo connected this structure directly to the Vatican and served as an escape route for popes during dangerous times. This secret corridor allowed Church leaders to reach safety when Rome faced threats.
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