What is Passetto di Borgo?

Passetto di Borgo is an 800-meter passage linking Vatican City to Castel Sant'Angelo. In 1277, Pope Nicholas III commissioned the passage as part of Rome’s medieval and Renaissance fortifications. Due to its fortified and hidden structure, it was used by popes as an escape route in times of danger. Today, the Passetto stands as a remarkable testament to the strategic foresight of the papacy and the turbulent history of medieval Rome.

How to access Passetto di Borgo?

Passetto di Borgo is a secret passageway connecting Castel Sant’Angelo and the Vatican castle. You can visit the corridor by buying tickets to Castel Sant’Angelo that provide exclusive access to the corridor.

The passageway has two entrances on the two ends of the attractions. To reach the corridor from Castel Sant’Angelo, you can enter through the Bastion of San Marco located in the northwest corner of the fortress. At St. Peter’s Basilica, you can access the passage’s entrance right behind the famous Bernini’s colonnade.

Things to know before booking Passetto di Borgo tickets

• Remember that not all entry tickets to Castel Sant’Angelo include the secret passage. To visit the corridor choose tickets that provide exclusive access to it.
• Passetto di Borgo has been a hidden papal escape route with discreet viewpoints and traces of old guard posts. An expert guide would help you uncover its legends and mysteries with insights into its secrets. Try booking in advance as guided tours are high in demand!
• A guided tour of Passetto di Borgo would begin in Piazza della Città Leonina, at the corner of Via del Mascherino leading up to the panoramic terrace of Castel Sant'Angelo. After reaching the terrace, you can explore the fortress on your own.
• Passetto di Borgo connects the Vatican with Castel Sant'Angelo, however, note that not all tickets with access to the corridor include access to St. Peter's Basilica. To visit the basilica as well, go for Castel Sant'Angelo & Passetto di Borgo + St. Peter's Basilica Entry Tickets.
• Standard tours to the passage do not include access to wheelchair users.

Your Passetto di Borgo ticket types explained

Entry to Passetto di Borgo is not always included in a Castel Sant’Angelo ticket. You would need to book tickets that provide exclusive access to the passage in order to visit it. 

Here’s a breakdown of the ticketing options for Passetto di Borgo available to you:

The story behind the corridor

In response to the Saracen raid of 844, Pope Leo IV built a defensive wall around St. Peter’s Basilica, known as the Mura Leonine. The fortified area became known as Civitas Leoniana.

In 1277, Pope Nicholas III converted an 800-meter stretch of this wall into a secure, elevated passage linking the Apostolic Palace to Castel Sant’Angelo—this became the Passetto di Borgo.

In the late 15th century, Pope Alexander VI reinforced the corridor by raising the wall and adding a second rampart above it, strengthening its role as an escape route and military structure. These upgrades gave the Passetto much of its current appearance and defensive features.

Visitor tips

• The passage has two entrances, one from the San Marco Bastion of Castel Sant'Angelo and another near the Piazza della Città Leonina just outside St. Peter’s Square, adjacent to the Vatican Walls. Make sure to check which entrance you need to report to for your tour.
• While specific daily schedules can vary, tours are generally offered during the daytime. It's advisable to check the latest timings and availability while booking your tickets.
• Remember there is no air conditioning in the passage. It is recommended to book afternoon or evening tours for a better experience.