Castel Sant'Angelo travel guide

Castel Sant'Angelo, also known as Mausoleum of Hadrian, is a historic monument with a rich history dating back to 123 AD.

This cylindrical fortress in the heart of Rome was initially commissioned by the Roman Emperor Hadrian as a mausoleum for himself and his family. By 401 AD, it was converted into a military fortress and later a castle by the popes.

The castle served as a refuge for Pope Clement VII during the Sack of Rome in 1527, connected to St. Peter's Basilica through the fortified corridor 'Passetto di Borgo'.

In the 14th century, it was used as a prison but today, it stands as a museum, attracting millions of tourists annually with its unique architecture, history, and panoramic views of Rome. The castle's name, 'Castel Sant'Angelo', derived from a legend in 590 AD during a great plague, when Archangel Michael was seen sheathing his sword atop the castle, symbolising the end of the plague.

One of Castel Sant'Angelo's most distinct features is the Passetto di Borgo, a secret corridor that connects the fortress to Vatican City. This hidden passageway, used by popes in times of danger, is a tangible testament to the castle's original function as a safe haven. The castle's structure itself is unique, as it was initially built as a mausoleum and later transformed into a military fortress, a papal residence, and then a prison.

The Tiber River surrounds Castel Sant'Angelo, creating a picturesque setting. The panoramic view from the terrace is another remarkable feature, offering visitors a breathtaking vista of Rome. Inside, the opulent papal apartments showcase frescoed rooms, revealing the fortress's luxurious side. The Hall of Justice, with its imposing statue of Archangel Michael, and the Treasury Room, which once stored the Vatican's wealth, are particularly noteworthy. The castle's layered history is evident in its architecture, interiors, and the stories each room holds, making it a truly unique Roman landmark.

Discover Castel Sant'Angelo, a prime feature of Rome, in the vibrant Roma Capitale. Castel Sant'Angelo is situated at Lungotevere Castello, 50, 00193 Roma RM, Italy, just a short distance from Neptune Fountain and Piazza Navona, making it a perfect addition to your itinerary.

In the vicinity of Castel Sant'Angelo, various dining and shopping options await, alongside a lively atmosphere that captures the essence of local life. This location serves as a perfect starting point or a key highlight during your exploration of Rome, a city in Italy rich with cultural and adventurous activities.

When planning your trip, timing is key. Discover the best time to visit Rome to fully enjoy the seasonal charm of Castel Sant'Angelo. Explore travel trips and ideas on this city from the comprehensive Rome travel guide for an unforgettable adventure.

Castel Sant'Angelo is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Rome, Italy. If you're flying in or planning to book a flight to Rome, Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport is approximately 13.7 miles (22 km) away from the city center. From there, you can easily reach Castel Sant'Angelo by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Rome, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Castel Sant'Angelo, which is located 1.1 miles (1.8 km) from the city center. Its exact address is Lungotevere Castello, 50, 00193 Roma RM, Italy.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Castel Sant'Angelo!

The best time to explore Castel Sant'Angelo in Rome, Italy is during the shoulder seasons - spring (April to June) and fall (September to October). During these periods, the weather is most pleasant, with mild temperatures and less rainfall, making it ideal for tourists to wander around the castle and enjoy its panoramic views. Also, crowd levels are usually lower compared to the summer tourist surge, allowing a more relaxed exploration. Special events such as the Festa della Primavera (Spring Festival) in May and the Notte Bianca (White Night) in September add a unique flavor to the visit, with cultural performances, concerts, and extended evening hours. For an unforgettable experience, consider a night visit to Castel Sant'Angelo. During summer, the castle stays open until midnight, offering a magical view of Rome under the stars. Regardless of the season, always remember to check the castle's official website for up-to-date opening hours and potential event schedules.

To truly enjoy your visit to Castel Sant'Angelo, joining a guided tour of this renowned castle in Rome is highly recommended. As one of Italy's most iconic attractions, Castel Sant'Angelo draws visitors from across the globe, often leading to long queues and limited availability.

Booking a tour in advance allows you to skip the lines and ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience. With the biggest selection of tours and tickets in Rome, you’re sure to find an option that fits your schedule and preferences.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to Castel Sant'Angelo starting at just 3 EUR below. Enjoy benefits like free cancellation and 24/7 customer support for added convenience.

With everything seamlessly arranged for your trip to Rome, you can simply pack your bags and look forward to exploring Castel Sant'Angelo.

Keep reading to discover the best options for experiencing this iconic castle in Italy.

Upon arriving at Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport, you’ll find 3 reputable rental car companies conveniently situated near the city of Rome.

Click 'See More' to unlock other affordable car rental options in Rome.

Choosing the right accommodation near Castel Sant'Angelo from the widest selection of hotels and places to stay in Rome can truly make all the difference in your trip. Not only will you be within a comfortable distance from Castel Sant'Angelo, but you’ll also enjoy the best rates available, backed by 24/7 customer service and glowing reviews.

To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve curated a handpicked list of top-rated hotels nearby.

Beyond Castel Sant'Angelo, Rome boasts plenty more landmarks that make every trip unforgettable. From park to establishment, the top attractions in Rome offer experiences you won’t want to miss.

One of the most notable attractions to visit while in Rome is Trevi Fountain, located at Piazza di Trevi, 00187 Roma RM, Italy. This well-known park enhances your time in the city.

Whether you plan a short visit or take time to explore fully, Colosseum is worth seeing when you're in Rome. It's a popular establishment that’s perfect for rounding out your itinerary. You’ll find it at Piazza del Colosseo, 1, 00184 Roma RM, Italy.

For an unforgettable addition to your itinerary, a visit to Pantheon completes any trip to Rome. This establishment draws visitors with its unique appeal, making it an essential stop on your journey. Located at Piazza della Rotonda, 00186 Roma RM, Italy, its surroundings offer plenty of reasons to linger a little longer.

The city's top sights offer a wide variety of experiences to make your trip truly memorable. Check out the full list of top attractions in Rome below to discover even more incredible places to explore.