Near the Tiber River, we find the Sant’Angelo Castle, this contains centuries of history, in addition to being deeply connected with the Vatican City. Likewise, this is one of the most iconic and well-known palaces in the Italian capital.
This castle dates back to the first centuries of the modern era, and was a work commissioned by the Emperor Hadrian. He wanted a magnificent mausoleum for himself and his family, which was close to the bank of the Tiber and connected to the Roman Bridge.However, the castle soon became a military building, and later became part of the Aurelian Wall.
Despite this, the true prominence of the Sant’Angelo Castle would come centuries later, when it became a symbol of hope for the citizens of Rome, which at that time was suffering the effects of a terrible plague epidemic.
According to legend, Pope Georgius I had a vision, in which Saint Michael appeared on the highest tower of the castle, holding a sword with which he put an end to the plague. In honor of this event, Sant’Angelo Castle, which was still known as Hadrian’s Mausoleum, received its current name.
The long history of Sant’Angelo Castle is full of curiosities, and one of them connects it directly with the Vatican City. This is because the seat of the Catholic religion and the palace are linked by an underground tunnel.
This road, known as passeto, played a fundamental role in saving the life of Pope Clement VII. Who had to flee because the city was being besieged and looted, putting their safety at risk. This mythical passageway still stands.
Likewise, this old palace functioned as a prison, as a warehouse for military supplies, as a papal residence, an armory and finally as a museum.
Sant’Angelo Castle also has a wide variety of artistic decorations, ranging from painting to sculpture. Some of his most famous works were made by Lorenzo Bernini.
Today, Sant’Angelo Castle continues to be a major tourist attraction, and has appeared in various contemporary productions, including movies, books, and video games.
If you are interested in Roman history and also in Vatican history, you will love Sant’Angelo Castle. There you can visit its different chambers, stairs and passageways. Likewise, you can experience what it was like to be a prisoner of the palace, entering its mysterious dungeons.
However, perhaps the most important attraction of the Sant’Angelo Castle is outside its legendary walls, since incredible photographs of the city of Rome can be taken from its highest point. Were you looking for a viewpoint with incomparable views? In Sant’Angelo, you will undoubtedly find it.
Keep in mind that to enter the castle you have to pay the entrance fee, but it is one of the recommended visits where you can photograph Rome from the top.
Similarly, Sant’Angelo Castle is the ideal complement to your walk through Rome, because it is very close to other popular places, such as Piazza Navona and St. Peter’s Square.
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