Castel Sant'Angelo

Castel Sant'Angelo is a fortified castle in Rome, originally built as a mausoleum and later converted into a papal fortress. The cylindrical structure rises above the Tiber with thick defensive walls, multiple floors of galleries, and a central courtyard connected to Vatican City.

Emperor Hadrian commissioned this monumental tomb between 134 and 139 as a resting place for himself and later Roman rulers. Popes later transformed it into a fortress and used it for centuries as a refuge during attacks on Rome.

The museum inside displays medieval weapons, Renaissance paintings, and collections documenting different periods in Roman history. Visitors today also see the papal apartments where church leaders sheltered during sieges and where frescoes recall their presence.

Visitors can purchase tickets to explore five floors of exhibitions, climb to the terrace, and enter the underground chambers. The ascent to the rooftop terrace offers views over the city and river but can be tiring due to narrow stairs and ramps.

The Passetto di Borgo, an elevated fortified corridor, connects the structure to Saint Peter's Basilica and served popes as an escape route during conflicts. This covered passage was used several times, including during the sack of Rome in 1527.

Location: Roma Capitale

Inception: 139

Architects: Decriannus

Creator: Bernardo Rossellino, Bernardo Rossellino

Official opening: 1906

Accessibility: Accesible en silla de ruedas

Fee: Yes

Charge: 14 EUR

Address: Lungotevere Castello, 50, 00193 Roma RM, Italy

Opening Hours: Lunes-Domingo 09:00-19:30

Phone: +39066819111

Email: sspsae-rm.castelsantangelo@beniculturali.it

Website: http://castelsantangelo.beniculturali.it

GPS coordinates: 41.90304,12.46631

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:49