Castel Sant'Angelo
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Visiting the Capitoline Museums in Rome was a delightful surprise, offering a refreshing departure from the crowds and chaos often associated with other popular attractions in the city. Tucked away atop the Capitoline Hill, this museum complex is a hidden gem, boasting an unparalleled collection of art and artifacts spanning millennia of Roman history. Originally founded in 1471 by Pope Sixtus IV, the Capitoline Museums are among the oldest public museums in the world. Housed in two grand buildings, the Palazzo dei Conservatori and the Palazzo Nuovo, the museums showcase a diverse array of treasures, including ancient sculptures, Renaissance masterpieces, and archaeological finds. What struck me most about the Capitoline Museums was the relative lack of crowds compared to other tourist hotspots in Rome. Despite its rich history and impressive collection, the museums seemed to fly under the radar of many visitors, making for a more intimate and enjoyable experience. Navigating the museums was a breeze, with no long lines or wait times to contend with. Tickets were readily available for purchase on-site, and the addition of free lockers provided added convenience for visitors. Exploring the galleries, I was captivated by the wealth of artistic and historical treasures on display. From the iconic statue of Marcus Aurelius on horseback to the exquisite frescoes of the Palazzo Nuovo, each exhibit offered a fascinating glimpse into the rich tapestry of Roman civilization. In addition to its world-class art collection, the Capitoline Museums also offer stunning views of Rome from their elevated perch atop the Capitoline Hill. Taking in the panoramic vistas of the city below was a memorable highlight of my visit, offering a unique perspective on Rome's ancient and modern landscapes. In conclusion, the Capitoline Museums are a true hidden gem in the heart of Rome, offering an unparalleled opportunity to delve into the city's rich artistic and cultural heritage. With its impressive collection, stunning views, and lack of crowds, it's a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of Rome's storied past. -------------- Visiting Castel Sant'Angelo in Rome is like stepping back in time to the days of ancient Rome and the Renaissance. Originally built as a mausoleum for the Roman Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century AD, the castle has served many purposes over the centuries, including as a fortress, residence, and prison. One of the highlights of a visit to Castel Sant'Angelo is undoubtedly the stunning views it offers of Rome and the Tiber River from its rooftop terrace. From this vantage point, visitors can admire panoramic vistas of the Eternal City, including iconic landmarks such as St. Peter's Basilica and the Colosseum. Inside the castle, visitors can explore a series of empty rooms that once served various functions, from living quarters to military barracks. While the lack of artifacts may disappoint some, the castle's rich history and architectural beauty more than make up for it. One of the most annoying aspects of my visit to Castel Sant'Angelo was the presence of school tours, the crowds were a bit overwhelming at times, but the overall ambiance of the castle is one of fascination and wonder. For those in need of refreshment during their visit, there is a charming coffee shop inside the castle grounds. Although I didn't have the chance to sample the food or drinks myself, the ambiance was inviting and provided a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of sightseeing. Finally, I would recommend wearing comfortable shoes and booking tickets in advance to avoid long wait times. While it's possible to purchase tickets on-site, booking ahead ensures a smoother and more enjoyable experience. In conclusion, Castel Sant'Angelo offers a fascinating journey through the history of Rome, with stunning views, intriguing architecture, and a vibrant atmosphere that make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Eternal City.
Klau PaoKlau Pao
10
Amazing castle to visit, a lot of history and a splendid area to see. I really recommend this place. Entry €13 per person is worthy. Take the metro and stop at Lepanto station. The price of the metro is €1.5. Have some drinks on the top of the castle and enjoy the view. Note: come early.... Open Tuesday to Sunday - close on Monday. Sant'Angelo's Castle, also known as Castel Sant'Angelo, is a magnificent fortress that stands proudly on the banks of the Tiber River, just a stone's throw away from the Vatican City. Its rich history, stunning architecture, and panoramic views make it a must-visit attraction for anyone exploring the Eternal City. The castle's origins can be traced back to the Roman Emperor Hadrian, who commissioned its construction as a mausoleum for himself and his family in the second century AD. Over the centuries, it evolved into a fortress, a papal residence, and a prison. Today, it serves as a museum, showcasing its fascinating past to visitors from around the world. Upon entering Sant'Angelo's Castle, I was immediately captivated by the grandeur of its architecture. The cylindrical shape, adorned with intricate sculptures, battlements, and statues, creates an imposing and regal presence. The inner courtyard, with its elegant arches and serene atmosphere, provides a tranquil space to escape the bustling city. One of the highlights of my visit was ascending to the castle's rooftop terrace. The panoramic views of Rome from this vantage point are simply breathtaking. From the dome of St. Peter's Basilica to the sprawling cityscape, the vistas stretch as far as the eye can see. It's a perfect spot to capture memorable photographs or simply soak in the beauty of the city. Exploring the interior of the castle is equally rewarding. The museum houses a diverse collection of artwork, historical artifacts, and informative displays that trace the castle's history and its significance to Rome. From ancient Roman sculptures to medieval weapons and Renaissance frescoes, the exhibits provide a comprehensive overview of the castle's evolution. The highlight of the museum is undoubtedly the Passetto di Borgo, a secret passage that connects Sant'Angelo's Castle to the Vatican City. Walking through this historic corridor, which played a pivotal role in several papal events, gives a sense of intrigue and connects the visitor to the intertwined histories of the castle and the Vatican. While the castle itself offers a captivating experience, it's worth noting that some areas of the museum may feel a bit cramped, especially during peak visiting hours. Navigating through the narrow passages and staircases can be challenging for individuals with mobility issues. Additionally, the lack of detailed signage or audio guides may require some prior research to fully appreciate the historical context. Despite these minor limitations, Sant'Angelo's Castle remains a must-visit attraction in Rome. Its rich history, stunning architecture, and sweeping views create a memorable experience for travelers seeking a deeper connection with the city's past. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an art lover, or simply in search of a unique perspective of Rome, Sant'Angelo's Castle will leave an indelible impression on your Roman journey.
W VW V
20
My visit to Castel Sant'Angelo in Rome was an incredible blend of history, architecture, and breathtaking views. Originally built as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian, this fortress has served multiple roles over the centuries—from papal refuge to military stronghold—and its rich history is palpable in every corner of the structure. Upon entering, I was immediately captivated by the imposing circular design and the mix of ancient Roman and medieval architecture. The castle’s stone walls and tunnels evoke a sense of mystery, and walking through its winding passages felt like stepping back into Rome’s tumultuous past. The exhibits inside the castle, including displays of armor, art, and relics from its various eras, provided valuable context and deepened my understanding of its historical significance. One of the highlights was reaching the upper levels, where the castle opens up to offer panoramic views of Rome. From the terrace, I had a stunning view of the Tiber River, Vatican City, and the vast expanse of the Eternal City. This alone made the visit worth it—there’s something magical about seeing the modern and ancient elements of Rome from such a vantage point. The Angel statue atop the castle is also impressive, standing as a symbolic protector of the city. Learning about its connection to the legend of the plague and the Archangel Michael made the experience feel even more profound. Despite its fortress-like exterior, the interior of Castel Sant’Angelo is surprisingly elegant in places, with frescoed rooms and beautifully preserved Renaissance decorations. Each section of the castle tells a story—from its days as Hadrian’s mausoleum to its use by popes during times of siege. Exploring the Papal apartments and secret passageways that connect to the Vatican added an extra layer of intrigue. The castle wasn’t overcrowded during my visit, which allowed me to take my time exploring and enjoying the atmosphere. I’d recommend visiting in the late afternoon for the golden light that bathes the city during sunset, creating an unforgettable backdrop for your experience. Overall, my visit to Castel Sant’Angelo was a fascinating journey through Rome’s layered history, and the combination of historical insights, artistic beauty, and scenic views made it one of the highlights of my trip to the city.
bala subramanyam nallibala subramanyam nalli
00
Castel Sant’Angelo: A Timeless Marvel on the Banks of the Tiber Castel Sant’Angelo, also known as the Mausoleum of Hadrian, stands as a sentinel on the right bank of the Tiber River in Rome, Italy. Its history is woven into the fabric of the Eternal City, and its silhouette against the Roman skyline is instantly recognizable. Let us explore the allure of this iconic monument: Hadrian’s Vision: Emperor Hadrian, known for his architectural prowess, commissioned the mausoleum between AD 123 and 139. Originally designed as a final resting place for himself and his family, it was a grand statement of imperial power. Architectural Splendor: The cylindrical structure, adorned with Doric columns and statues, was once crowned by a garden and a golden quadriga (a four-horse chariot). Hadrian’s ashes, along with those of his wife Sabina and other emperors, found their eternal abode within its walls. Angel from Heaven: The building derives its name from the statue of Archangel Michael perched atop the castle. Legend has it that the archangel appeared above the mausoleum, sheathing his sword as a sign of the end of a plague in 590 AD. Military Fortress: Over the centuries, Castel Sant’Angelo transformed from a mausoleum to a fortress. In 401 AD, it became part of the Aurelian Walls, defending Rome against invaders. Visiting the Castle: Today, visitors can explore its interior, which houses a museum. The Passetto di Borgo, a secret passage connecting the Vatican to the castle, adds intrigue. Views from the Terrace: Climb to the terrace for panoramic vistas of Rome—the Colosseum, St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Tiber River. Sunset casts a golden glow over the city, making it a photographer’s dream. Legends and Lore: Castel Sant’Angelo features in Dan Brown’s novel “Angels & Demons”. Its dungeons, secret chambers, and winding corridors evoke mystery and intrigue. In summary, Castel Sant’Angelo is more than stone and history—it’s a witness to Rome’s evolution, a guardian of secrets, and a bridge between past and present. 🏰🌆🇮🇹 For more information, visit Castel Sant’Angelo on Wikipedia or explore its majestic halls in person. Happy time-traveling! 🌟
YanniYanni
10
Die Engelsburg (italienisch: Castel Sant'Angelo), eines der markantesten Wahrzeichen Roms, ist ein eindrucksvolles historisches Monument, das auf eine fast 2.000-jährige Geschichte zurückblickt. Ursprünglich als Mausoleum für den römischen Kaiser Hadrian im Jahr 135 n. Chr. errichtet, hat die Engelsburg im Laufe der Jahrhunderte zahlreiche Funktionen erfüllt – von einem kaiserlichen Grabmal über eine päpstliche Festung bis hin zu einem Gefängnis. Heute ist sie ein faszinierendes Museum, das Besuchern einen einzigartigen Einblick in die Geschichte Roms bietet. Die Burg liegt malerisch am Tiberufer, unweit des Vatikans, und ist durch die berühmte Engelsbrücke (Ponte Sant'Angelo) mit der Stadt verbunden. Diese prächtige Brücke, die mit eindrucksvollen Engelsstatuen von Bernini und seinen Schülern geschmückt ist, führt direkt zur Festung und bietet einen herrlichen Blick auf den Fluss und die Umgebung. Schon der Spaziergang über diese Brücke ist ein Erlebnis, das den Besucher auf die beeindruckende Geschichte der Engelsburg einstimmt. Im Inneren der Engelsburg erwartet die Besucher eine faszinierende Mischung aus Architektur, Kunst und Geschichte. Die unteren Ebenen des Bauwerks beherbergen das ursprüngliche Mausoleum, in dem Hadrian und seine Nachfolger beigesetzt wurden. Mit seinen massiven, zylindrischen Mauern und den monumentalen Dimensionen ist es ein eindrucksvolles Zeugnis der römischen Ingenieurskunst. Auf den oberen Ebenen befinden sich Räume, die im Mittelalter und in der Renaissance als päpstliche Residenzen genutzt wurden. Die prunkvollen Gemächer sind mit Fresken und kostbaren Dekorationen ausgestattet, die einen Einblick in das Leben der Päpste während der turbulenten Zeiten des Mittelalters und der Renaissance bieten. Ein besonders beeindruckender Teil der Engelsburg ist der sogenannte Passetto di Borgo, ein geheimer, erhöhter Gang, der den Vatikan mit der Engelsburg verbindet. Dieser Fluchtweg wurde von den Päpsten im Falle von Angriffen oder politischen Unruhen genutzt, um sich in die Sicherheit der Festung zurückzuziehen. Der Passetto spielte während der Belagerung Roms im Jahr 1527 eine entscheidende Rolle, als Papst Clemens VII. hier Zuflucht suchte. Die Burg diente im Laufe der Jahrhunderte auch als Gefängnis, und einige der berühmtesten Gefangenen der Geschichte wurden in ihren Mauern festgehalten, darunter der Bildhauer und Goldschmied Benvenuto Cellini sowie einige politische Gefangene. Diese düstere Seite der Engelsburg verleiht ihr eine zusätzliche historische Tiefe und zeigt, wie vielseitig ihre Funktionen im Laufe der Jahrhunderte waren. Ein Highlight des Besuchs ist die beeindruckende Terrasse auf der Spitze der Engelsburg. Hier steht die berühmte Statue des Erzengels Michael, die der Burg ihren Namen gab. Der Legende nach erschien Michael dem Papst Gregor dem Großen während einer Pestepidemie im Jahr 590 und steckte sein Schwert in die Scheide, als Zeichen für das Ende der Seuche. Seitdem gilt die Engelsburg als Symbol für Schutz und Heilung. Von der Terrasse aus hat man einen atemberaubenden Blick über Rom, den Petersdom, den Tiber und die umliegenden Viertel – ein unvergesslicher Anblick, besonders bei Sonnenuntergang. Heute ist die Engelsburg ein Museum, das Kunstwerke, Waffen und historische Artefakte ausstellt, die die vielfältige Geschichte dieses Bauwerks widerspiegeln. Die Räume und Gänge der Burg bieten einen faszinierenden Einblick in die Architektur und den Wandel ihrer Funktion über die Jahrhunderte hinweg. Zusammengefasst ist die Engelsburg ein faszinierendes Ziel für jeden Rom-Besucher. Ihre reiche Geschichte, die von römischen Kaisern über mittelalterliche Päpste bis hin zu ihrer Rolle als Festung und Gefängnis reicht, macht sie zu einem der faszinierendsten Orte in Rom. Die Engelsburg vereint Geschichte, Kunst und einen der besten Panoramablicke über die Stadt und bietet ein unvergessliches Erlebnis, das tief in die Geschichte der Ewigen Stadt eintaucht.
Marcel KarstenMarcel Karsten
00
Castel Sant'Angelo, con la sua imponente e solitaria presenza sulle sponde del Tevere, è uno dei monumenti più affascinanti e misteriosi di Roma. Osservando la sua forma circolare che si staglia contro il cielo romano, è facile percepire il peso dei secoli che gravano su questo luogo, capace di trasformarsi e adattarsi alle esigenze della città, rimanendo sempre al centro della sua storia. Costruito nel 135 d.C. dall'imperatore Adriano come mausoleo per sé e per la sua famiglia, Castel Sant'Angelo ha attraversato quasi due millenni di storia, cambiando volto e funzione. Da monumento funebre a possente fortezza medievale, da prigione temuta a sontuosa residenza papale, questo edificio è stato testimone silenzioso dei momenti più drammatici e gloriosi della storia di Roma. Entrare a Castel Sant'Angelo è come fare un salto indietro nel tempo. La sua architettura robusta e severa nasconde al suo interno un labirinto di sale, passaggi segreti e cortili che raccontano le vicende di chi lo ha abitato. Un tempo, le mura di questo castello racchiudevano il potere imperiale, e successivamente quello papale. Durante il Medioevo, Castel Sant'Angelo divenne una vera e propria fortezza militare, un rifugio sicuro per i papi durante le invasioni e gli assedi, grazie anche al celebre Passetto di Borgo, un corridoio sopraelevato che collega il castello direttamente alla Basilica di San Pietro. Attraverso questo passaggio segreto, i papi potevano fuggire in sicurezza in caso di pericolo. Ma Castel Sant'Angelo non è solo una fortezza: all'interno delle sue mura si nascondono stanze affrescate, sale da banchetto, e persino logge panoramiche che offrono una delle viste più spettacolari su Roma. Salendo fino alla terrazza, si può ammirare il Cupolone di San Pietro in tutta la sua maestosità, con il Tevere che serpeggia placidamente sotto i tuoi occhi. È un luogo che invita alla contemplazione, alla riflessione, un angolo di Roma che sembra sospeso tra cielo e terra. Uno degli elementi più iconici del castello è sicuramente la statua dell'Arcangelo Michele, che domina la terrazza e dà il nome alla struttura. Secondo la leggenda, durante una terribile pestilenza nel 590 d.C., l'arcangelo apparve sulla sommità del castello per annunciare la fine dell'epidemia, spada sguainata, come segno di protezione divina sulla città. Da quel momento, il castello prese il nome di Castel Sant'Angelo in onore di quell'apparizione miracolosa. Le sue sale interne, un tempo temute prigioni, sono state teatro di drammi e storie oscure. Tra i suoi prigionieri più celebri ricordiamo Benvenuto Cellini, il famoso orafo e scultore, che riuscì a fuggire miracolosamente dalle segrete del castello, una fuga che divenne leggenda. Altri prigionieri, però, non furono altrettanto fortunati: le celle di Castel Sant'Angelo videro la fine di molte vite, in un’epoca in cui il potere si imponeva anche con la forza e la coercizione. Ma Castel Sant'Angelo è anche stato un luogo di sontuosi banchetti e feste papali. Nei secoli successivi, alcuni papi decisero di trasformare le fredde stanze della fortezza in eleganti appartamenti, arricchendoli con affreschi, mobili e opere d'arte. Passeggiare per queste stanze è un'esperienza sorprendente: la durezza delle mura medievali si contrappone alla delicatezza delle decorazioni rinascimentali, creando un contrasto affascinante tra guerra e bellezza. Castel Sant'Angelo è un monumento vivo, che racconta una storia di trasformazione continua, riflettendo le diverse anime di Roma: imperiale, papale, militare, artistica. Che tu sia appassionato di storia, arte o architettura, una visita a Castel Sant'Angelo ti regalerà un’esperienza indimenticabile, facendoti immergere in un mondo di leggende, potere e bellezza senza tempo. Non si può dire di aver veramente visto Roma senza aver camminato lungo le sue antiche mura e ammirato la città dall'alto della sua terrazza.
Angelo IranoAngelo Irano
00
Nearby Attractions Of Castel Sant'Angelo
Piazza Navona
Sistine Chapel
Campo de' Fiori
Saint Peter's Square
Parco della Mole Adriana
St. Angelo Bridge
Fiumi Fountain
St. Peter Square Obelisk
Museo dell'Ara Pacis
Chiostro del Bramante

Piazza Navona
4.7
(62.6K)Click for details

Sistine Chapel
4.7
(28.3K)Click for details

Campo de' Fiori
4.4
(22.4K)Click for details

Saint Peter's Square
4.8
(16.1K)Click for details
Nearby Restaurants Of Castel Sant'Angelo
Osteria da Fortunata
Cantina e Cucina
Ristorante Pizzeria Castello
Osteria da Fortunata - Rinascimento
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Sant' Eustachio Caffè
Pizzeria Da Baffetto
Mimì e Cocò
La Nuova Piazzetta Navona
Mariuccia

Osteria da Fortunata
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Cantina e Cucina
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Ristorante Pizzeria Castello
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Osteria da Fortunata - Rinascimento
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