English
English
- Castel Sant'Angelo
- Passetto di Borgo
- Archangel Michael Statue
- Mausoleum of Hadrian
- Ponte Sant’Angelo
- History
- Inside
- Colosseum
- Vatican Museums
- St. Peter's Basilica
- Rome Pantheon
- Musei Capitolini
- Roman Catacombs Tour
- Borghese Gallery
- Altare della Patria
- Doria Pamphilj Gallery
- Rome To Amalfi Coast Tours
- Rome To Tuscany Tours
- Bioparco Rome
- Big Bus Rome Hop-on Hop-off Tours
- Palazzo Barberini
- Leonardo da Vinci Museum
- Trevi Fountain Tours
Contents
Explore Castel Sant'Angelo: Artifacts, history, and terrace views
Originally the mausoleum of Emperor Hadrian, Castel Sant'angelo transformed into a fortress, prison and now a historical attraction. From stunning architecture to breathtaking views of Rome's skyline, it pulls millions of tourists every year. Here...
Founded By
Emperor Hadrian
Castel Sant AngeloCastel Sant'Angelo
Quick Information
RECOMMENDED DURATION
2 hours
Timings
09:00–19:30
VISITORS PER YEAR
1234443
TICKETS
From € 16
EXPECTED WAIT TIME - STANDARD
30-60 mins (Peak), 0-30 mins (Off Peak)
EXPECTED WAIT TIME - SKIP THE LINE
0-30 mins (Peak), 0-30 mins (Off Peak)
Did you know?
Originally known as the "Mausoleum of Hadrian," the castle acquired its current name in 590 AD when legend suggests that the Archangel Michael appeared atop the castle, ending a plague in Rome.
Castel Sant'Angelo is linked to the Vatican by a secret elevated passageway called the Passetto di Borgo. This 800-meter corridor served as an escape route for popes during times of danger—most notably used by Pope Clement VII during the Sack of Rome in 1527.
The statue of the angel atop the castle has faced misfortune throughout history, being destroyed multiple times by various calamities before the current bronze statue was installed in 1753.
Select Your Tickets
What's to see at Castel Sant'Angelo?
Mausoleum of Hadrian
At the heart of the structure lies the original Roman core—a massive circular chamber that once held the ashes of Emperor Hadrian and his successors. Though the urns are long gone, the sheer scale and architectural genius of the burial chamber remain awe-inspiring.
The prison cells
Dark, narrow, and unsettling, these stone rooms were once used to hold political enemies and heretics. Allegedly, figures like Giordano Bruno and Benvenuto Cellini were imprisoned here. Look out for graffiti and carvings left by former inmates.
The papal apartments
High above the old tomb lie elegant rooms used by popes in times of crisis. These chambers, especially the Sala Paolina, are richly decorated with Renaissance frescoes, papal emblems, and ornate furniture. Don’t miss the library, papal bedroom, and the throne room.
The military museum
Throughout the upper levels and hallways, you’ll find collections of armor, weapons, and cannons used in the castle’s defense. These exhibits highlight the building’s transformation into a military stronghold during the Middle Ages.
The Terrazza dell’Angelo
The crown jewel of your visit—the rooftop terrace offers 360° panoramic views of Rome, including a perfect view of St. Peter’s Basilica. It’s named after the towering bronze statue of Archangel Michael, said to have sheathed his sword here as a sign of the plague’s end in 590 AD.
Passetto di Borgo
This secret elevated corridor connects the castle to the Vatican City. It was used by popes as an escape route during times of siege. While not always accessible, some guided tours include rare access to this historic passage.
Castel Sant’Angelo highlights
Archangel Michael statue
At the top of Castel Sant’Angelo stands the statue of Archangel Michael, marking a legendary moment in Roman history. According to tradition, Pope Gregory the Great saw a vision of Michael sheathing his sword here in 590 AD, signaling the end of a plague. The current bronze statue, made by Peter Anton von Verschaffelt in 1753, commemorates that vision. Today, it’s a key highlight of the castle and offers sweeping views of Rome.
Passetto di Borgo
The Passetto di Borgo is an 800-meter elevated corridor built in 1277 by Pope Nicholas III to connect Castel Sant'Angelo with the Vatican. It served as an escape route for Popes, notably used by Alexander VI in 1494 and Clement VII during the 1527 Sack of Rome. Visitors can view it from the castle, and it occasionally opens to the public in summer.
Ponte Sant’Angelo
The Ponte Sant’Angelois a 135-meter bridge built by Emperor Hadrian to link Castel Sant’Angelo to the city. Once called the Aelian Bridge, it became a key route for pilgrims to St. Peter’s Basilica. Renamed in the 7th century after the Archangel Michael statue was added to the mausoleum, it was later adorned with 10 angel sculptures by Bernini during the Renaissance.
All your questions answered about Castel Sant’Angelo
What is the castle famous for?
The Castel Sant’Angelo Rome is famous for being the tomb of Emperor Hadrian. It is also known serving as a fortress, prison, and Papal residence throughout history. Today, the museum is known for its cultural and historical value.
Why is it called the "Castle of the Holy Angel"?
The name originates from a legend in 590 AD when Pope Gregory the Great saw a vision of the Archangel Michael sheathing his sword atop the mausoleum, signaling the end of a plague in Rome. To commemorate this event, a statue of the angel was placed on top, and the structure became known as Castel Sant'Angelo.
Is it part of the Vatican?
Not officially — it’s a separate monument. But it’s linked to the Vatican by the secret Passetto di Borgo passage, used by popes to escape danger.
Was the castle ever a prison?
Yes — and a feared one. High-profile prisoners, including artists and political rebels, were once locked inside its stone cells.
How much time should I allocate for a visit?
A typical visit lasts between 2 to 3 hours, allowing ample time to explore the various levels, exhibits, and enjoy panoramic views from the terrace.
When is the best time to visit to avoid crowds?
Early mornings on weekdays are ideal for a quieter experience. Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) offer pleasant weather and fewer tourists.
Are there restrooms and cafes on-site?
Yes, restrooms are available, and there's a café on the upper levels where visitors can enjoy refreshments with a view.
Can I take photos inside the castle?
Yes, photography is allowed. However, the use of flash or tripods may be restricted in certain areas.
Are there any hidden gems within the castle?
The Passetto di Borgo, a secret passage connecting the Vatican to the castle, is a fascinating feature. Additionally, the terrace offers stunning views of Rome.
