We’re stepping into the heart of Rome, where history whispers through ancient stones. Join us as we wander through the majestic Castel Sant'Angelo, a towering fortress that has stood the test of time for nearly two millennia. From its storied past as a mausoleum for emperors to a papal refuge, this iconic structure offers breathtaking rooftop views of the Eternal City. As we end our journey, we'll glide along the serene Tiber River, capturing the enchanting night views of Rome that will leave you spellbound. Lace-up your shoes - let’s dive into history!

Getting Inside

The queues to enter the castle are often very long! Sometimes, the line is mostly filled with tourists who have prepaid tickets, so we strongly advise booking in advance!

Before we head up to enjoy the stunning views from the top, let’s take a look inside. You might be surprised to discover that the castle houses a series of buildings within its walls!

Castel Sant'Angelo: History and Construction Details

Castel Sant'Angelo, or the Mausoleum of Hadrian, is a formidable structure in Rome with a history as layered as the city itself. Originally commissioned by Emperor Hadrian around 135 AD, it was intended as a grand mausoleum for himself and his family. Constructed with a cylindrical core of concrete and stone, the mausoleum was originally adorned with a golden statue of Hadrian atop its dome, symbolizing the emperor’s reach towards the heavens.

Over the centuries, the building's purpose evolved. During the early medieval period, it was converted into a fortress by the popes, given its strategic position near the Vatican. The castle’s robust defensive walls and moat were further reinforced, transforming it into a powerful symbol of papal might.

Walking The Castle

In addition to the courtyard statue, the castle’s interior features several other angelic figures, each contributing to the spiritual and historical ambiance of the site. These statues, crafted with exquisite detail, are reminders of the castle's evolution from a mausoleum to a fortress and then to a papal residence, intertwining the themes of protection and divine intervention.

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Getting There and Exploring the Castle

Castel Sant'Angelo is centrally located along the Tiber River, near the Vatican. The closest metro stop is Ottaviano-San Pietro, about a 15-minute walk away. Alternatively, you can take a scenic stroll across the Sant'Angelo Bridge, with its statues of angels designed by Bernini, leading directly to the castle entrance.

Once inside, you can explore its many levels, each offering a unique glimpse into its past. The castle’s spiral ramp, an architectural marvel, allows you to ascend from the base to the upper levels, where you’ll encounter various rooms that once housed popes, prisoners, and soldiers.

Do you see that wall going all the way to the Vatican? That'sPassetto di Borgo, a secret elevated passageway connecting the Vatican to Castel Sant'Angelo. Built in 1277 by Pope Nicholas III, this 800-meter corridor served as an escape route for popes during times of danger. The most famous use of the Passetto was in 1527, when Pope Clement VII fled to the fortress during the Sack of Rome.

Rooftop Views

the rooftop of Castel Sant'Angelo offers one of the most breathtaking views in Rome. From this vantage point, you can take in a sweeping panorama of the Eternal City, with iconic landmarks like St. Peter's Basilica, the Tiber River, and the historic skyline stretching out before you. Standing at the top is the statue of Archangel Michael, a powerful symbol of protection and peace. This bronze statue, with its wings spread wide and sword sheathed, has watched over Rome for centuries, embodying the fortress’s rich history and enduring spirit.

Ponte Sant'Angelo

The St. Angelo Bridge, or Ponte Sant'Angelo, is one of Rome's most picturesque and historic pedestrian bridges. Built by Emperor Hadrian in 134 AD to connect the city center with his mausoleum, now known as Castel Sant'Angelo, the bridge has been a vital crossing of the Tiber River for nearly two millennia.

Lined with ten magnificent statues of angels, designed by the great Baroque artist Gian Lorenzo Bernini, each angel carries a symbol of Christ’s Passion, adding a touch of spiritual significance to the journey across. The bridge’s elegant arches and artistic beauty make it a favorite spot for both locals and visitors, offering stunning views of the castle, the river, and the surrounding cityscape. Whether by day or night, a walk across the St. Angelo Bridge is like stepping back in time, surrounded by the art and history that define Rome.

Interior Treasures

Two of the most notable rooms are the Sala Paolina and the Hall of Apollo.

Inside the Sala Paolina and the Hall of Apollo

Sala Paolina

The Sala Paolina is one of the most opulent rooms in Castel Sant'Angelo, named after Pope Paul III who commissioned its decoration. This room is adorned with magnificent frescoes by Perin del Vaga and his pupils. The frescoes depict various scenes from the life of Alexander the Great and other mythological tales, reflecting the grandeur and power of the papacy during the Renaissance. The room's intricate stucco work and detailed ceilings showcase the artistic excellence of the period.

Hall of Apollo

Moving on to the Hall of Apollo, this room is equally stunning and named after the Greek god Apollo. It features beautiful frescoes and decorations that celebrate Apollo, often associated with the arts, knowledge, and light. The hall’s artwork emphasizes themes of divine beauty and intellect, with Apollo often depicted in scenes of mythological significance. The architectural details in this hall also speak to the Renaissance’s admiration for classical antiquity.

Tiber River Boat Tours

After exploring the castle, why not continue your adventure with a boat tour along the Tiber River? Exploring Rome from the Tiber River offers a unique perspective of the city's historic landmarks. Here’s a detailed guide on when, how, duration, and tickets for Tiber River boat tours.

When

Tiber River boat tours are typically available from April to October. Specific tours, such as the evening cruises with aperitifs, are also available during this period.

How

You can book Tiber River boat tours through various providers. Options include:

Hop-On Hop-Off Cruises: These allow you to board and disembark at multiple stops along the river, providing flexibility to explore different parts of Rome at your own pace
Evening Cruises: These often include aperitifs or dinner, offering a relaxing and romantic experience on the river.

Duration

Hop-On Hop-Off Cruises: The ticket is valid for 24 hours, allowing you to hop on and off as many times as you like within that period
Standard River Cruises: These typically last about 1 hour and 20 minutes for a complete tour without hopping on and off.

Tickets

Hop-On Hop-Off Tickets: These can be purchased online or at designated ticket booths along the river. The ticket is valid for 24 hours from the first use
Evening Cruise Tickets: These can also be booked online or through tour operators. Prices may vary depending on the inclusions such as food and drinks.

For a seamless experience, it’s recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. Some tours also offer combined tickets that include both boat tours and other attractions, providing a comprehensive sightseeing experience.

Night Views

if you took an evening Castel Sant’Angelo tour, walk out and head about 500 meters to the left, to Ponte Umberto I. It’s probably one of the two areas most photographs prefer in order to capture this majestic scene! It’s a serene way to end your day, with the soft glow of the city casting a magical spell over your journey.

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