Castel Sant’Angelo – Hadrian’s Tomb and the Papal Fortress

Hadrian's Mausoleum

Originally built as Hadrian’s Mausoleum, this monumental tomb was designed by the emperor, himself, and overlooked the Vatican field.

Its cylindrical structure was covered in greenery with a bronze statue of Hadrian on a chariot overlooking the surrounding area. The internal spiral ramp led to the funeral cell containing big cinerary urns.

Legend tells the Archangel Michael appeared sheathing his sword atop the tomb to Pope Gregory the Great (Pope Gregory I), signifying the end of the plague of 590.

Castel Sant'Angelo under Construction

The tomb, which housed the burials of roman emperors up to Caracalla, was converted into a fortress. The citizens of Rome, sieged by barbarians in the 6th century, took shelter inside and used statues and decorations as projectiles to defend themselves.

 

A Direct Route to the Vatican

Beginning in the 14th-century, the popes began to convert the fortress into a castle of papal residences. The castle was soon connected to Saint Peter’s Basilica with the Passetto di Borgo, a fortified corridor. Raphael’s pupils adorned the castle with grotesque frescos, golden stuccos, and sparkling marble floors. However, the castle hides a dark heart; the Papal state used it as a dreadful prison, housing criminals and innocents alike. Castel Sant’Angelo hides a dynamic story of change, war, fortune, and endless intrigue.

OPENING HOURS: Tuesday – Sunday: 9:00am - 7:00pm

Must-see in Castel Sant'Angelo

Sant’Angelo Bridge leading up to the castle National Museum of Castel Sant’Angelo Treasury on fifth floor Papal Apartments on fourth floor Prison on second floor Terrace with café at the top

What has Castel Sant'Angelo been in?

Castel Sant’Angelo is a prominent setting in Angels and Demons by Dan Brown, and the opera Tosca by Puccini features the ringing of the Martin Bells located at the castle. This was the tallest building in Rome when it was constructed.