Castel Sant'Angelo

Introduction

Standing atop the banks of the Tiber River in Rome, Italy, lies an imposing yet breathtaking structure called the Castel Sant'Angelo. This imposing fortress-like structure, whose original purpose was a mausoleum for the Roman emperor Hadrian and his family, has become one of the most iconic monuments in all of Rome.

The towering cylindrical structure has stood for nearly 2,000 years. During that time it has served a number of different purposes, as we will find out further down. Today, it is open to the public as a museum, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich history of Rome and the Papacy.

Serving both practical and artistic functions throughout its long history, this monument offers great insight into both a tumultuous past and more recent, brighter times.

History

Construction of the Castel Sant'Angelo began in 135 AD, during the reign of Emperor Hadrian. As mentioned in the introduction, the emperor intended for the castle to serve as his own mausoleum, as well as a tomb for his family and other members of the imperial court. The castle was completed in 139 AD, although Hadrian's ashes were interred there upon his death a year before its completion, in 138 AD.

In the centuries that followed, the castle served as a fortress, a papal residence, and a prison. The popes used the castle as a place of refuge during times of conflict, and it was heavily fortified to protect them from attack. The castle was also used as a prison, with prisoners being held in the castle's dungeons.

In addition to serving as a mausoleum for Hadrian's descendants, Castel Sant’Angelo was used for a military purpose much later during Medieval times. Alterations were made in the 15th century to strengthen its fortifications, turning it into a defensive structure in case enemy forces tried to invade from the banks of the Tiber River below.

It wasn't until Pope Gregory XIV decided to make Castel Sant’Angelo an official Papal residence (nicknamed "Angel Castle") that it really took on its identity as we recognize it today.

Papal Residence and Fortress

Numerous popes of the Middle Ages made changes to the appearance and defensive capabilities of the Castel Sant'Angelo.

In the 13th century, Pope Nicholas III created a secret tunnel which could be used to escape from the castle if necessary (see "Attractions" section below).

Pope Clement VII took refuge in the castle during the Sack of Rome in 1527, and Pope Paul III made extensive renovations to the castle in the 16th century, including the construction of comfortable new apartments to sit out any long siege taking place.

During the Baroque period, the popes continued to use the Castel Sant'Angelo as a residence and as a place of refuge if required.

Museum

In 1901, the Italian government turned the Castel Sant'Angelo into a museum, and it has been open to the public ever since. Today, the museum's collection includes sculptures, frescoes, and other works of art. Visitors can also explore the castle's ramparts and its underground passageways, including the secret passage that was built to provide a safe escape route for the popes.

More information on what can be seen at the Castel Sant'Angelo can be seen in the “Attractions” section further down this page.

Architecture

The castle's walls are made of brick and stone, and it is topped by a terrace. The castle's design is heavily influenced by ancient Roman architecture, with many of its features - such as its rounded shape - drawing inspiration from ancient Roman mausoleums.

The castle's interior is also heavily influenced by the artistic styles of ancient Rome, with many of its rooms and corridors featuring frescoes and sculptures that depict scenes from Roman mythology.

The castle's ramparts offer visitors panoramic views of the modern city of Rome, and its underground passageways - including the secret passage that was built to provide a safe escape route for the popes - offer a glimpse into the castle's history as a fortress and a residence.

Attractions

The Castle offers many attractions for the visitors, including:

The Papal Apartments: Visitors can explore the castle's papal apartments, which were used by the popes during the medieval and early modern periods. These apartments include the Pope's bedroom, his private chapel, and his audience chamber.

The Secret Passageway: Explore the secret passageway, the Passetto di Borgo, that was built to provide a safe escape route for the popes in times of danger. The passageway is a narrow, underground tunnel that runs from the castle to St. Peter's Basilica.

The Terrace: Visitors can access the terrace of the castle, which offers panoramic views of Rome and the Tiber River below. The terrace is located at the top of the castle and features a statue of the archangel Michael, after whom the castle is named.

The Museum Collection: It is well worth taking the time to explore the museum's collection, which includes sculptures, frescoes, and other works of art that were once housed in the castle. The collection includes works by famous artists such as Raphael and Bernini.

Conclusion

The Archangel Michael on top of the Castel Sant'Angelo roof

The Castel Sant'Angelo is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Rome. With its rich history, stunning architecture, priceless museum artefacts and breathtaking views, it offers a unique glimpse into the city's past and the Papacy's role in shaping it.

Whether you're interested in ancient Roman architecture, medieval history, art, or just wish to enjoy the views of Rome below, there is something for everyone at the Castel Sant'Angelo.