Castel Sant'Angelo in Rome

Nestled along the tranquil banks of the Tiber River, Castel Sant'Angelo is an iconic symbol of Rome's historical and architectural magnificence.

Published: 10/1/2025
Last Published: 10/5/2025
Updated: 10/1/2025
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Castel Sant'Angelo in Rome

Nestled along the tranquil banks of the Tiber River, Castel Sant'Angelo is an iconic symbol of Rome's historical and architectural magnificence.

Oct 1, 2025
1 min read
Nestled along the tranquil banks of the Tiber River, Castel Sant'Angelo is an iconic symbol of Rome's historical and architectural magnificence. This impressive fortress, originally conceived as Hadrian's Mausoleum, has transformed through the ages into a papal fortress, a royal residence, and now a captivating museum. With its storied past and breathtaking views of the Eternal City, Castel Sant'Angelo is a must-visit for anyone exploring Rome.

A Storied History of Castel Sant'Angelo

Commissioned by Emperor Hadrian in AD 135, Castel Sant'Angelo was initially designed as a mausoleum for himself and his family. The architectural design, attributed to the Roman architect Demetrianus, was a striking departure from traditional Roman structures, featuring a massive cylindrical form clad in gleaming travertine marble. Over time, the mausoleum's purpose shifted dramatically. By the 5th century, it was integrated into Rome's fortifications, leveraging its strategic position adjacent to the Tiber River. In 590 AD, Pope Gregory the Great had a vision of the Archangel Michael atop the mausoleum, sheathing his sword to signify the end of a devastating plague. This divine apparition led to the structure's renaming as Castel Sant'Angelo, forever linking it to Rome's spiritual and physical defenses. During the Renaissance, the castle was further fortified by the popes, who used it as a refuge in troubled times. The renowned architect Antonio da Sangallo the Younger contributed to its fortification, adding bastions and turrets, cementing its role as a papal fortress.
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What to See and Do at Castel Sant'Angelo

Visitors to Castel Sant'Angelo are treated to a rich tapestry of history and art, woven into every corner of this remarkable site. Begin your exploration with a visit to the Museo Nazionale di Castel Sant'Angelo, housed within the castle. The museum showcases an impressive collection of Renaissance art, military memorabilia, and artifacts from various epochs of Roman history. Don't miss the exquisite Sala Paolina, adorned with frescoes by Giulio Mazzoni, depicting scenes from the life of Pope Paul III. As you wander through the ancient corridors, you'll encounter the sumptuous papal apartments, where Renaissance popes found refuge. The apartments are adorned with intricate decorations and offer a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of Rome's spiritual leaders. The highlight for many visitors is the panoramic terrace. Ascend the winding staircases to the top, where a 360-degree view of Rome awaits. From this vantage point, marvel at the sweeping vistas of St. Peter's Basilica, the Vatican, and the meandering Tiber River.

Tours that include Castel Sant'Angelo

Skip the line Castel Sant'Angelo Tour tiered price
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Skip the line Castel Sant'Angelo Tour tiered price

2h
FromFrom €177.08
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Profit of this 2-hour skip-the-line tour to visit Castel Sant'Angelo. Built in 135 AD. as a mausoleum for the emperor Hadrian, the building played an important role in the history of architecture in Rome. Climb the spiral ramp to reach the Hall of Urns, that hosted the ashes of Hadrian. Continue your visit in the Papal Residence built by Pope Paul III. Immerse yourself in the history of each room, while observing the art inside, such as the frescoes of the 15th century and the famous grotesques. Visit the courtyard, where executions once took place, and finish on the terrace that offers a wonderful view of the city, so bring the camera with you!

Skip-the-line Castel Sant'Angelo and Vatican Private Tour
User rated - 8.8/10

Skip-the-line Castel Sant'Angelo and Vatican Private Tour

2-4h 0-30m
FromFrom €240.35
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Unwrap layers of Roman history and heritage on a guided tour of Castel Sant'Angelo, an ancient mausoleum, papal fortress, prison and more. Choose one of our excellent tour options tailored to your needs and interests: 2-hour: Castel Sant'Angelo This option includes a guided tour of Castel Sant'Angelo with skip-the-line tickets. 3,5-hour: Castel Sant'Angelo & Transport This option includes a 1,5-hour round-trip transfer and a 2-hour guided tour of Castel Sant'Angelo with skip-the-line tickets. 3-hour: Castel Sant'Angelo & Vatican This option includes a guided tour of Castel Sant'Angelo with skip-the-line tickets and the highlights of Vatican, such as St. Peter's Square. 4,5-hour: Castel Sant'Angelo, Vatican & Transport This option includes a 1,5-hour round-trip transfer and a 2-hour guided of Castel Sant'Angelo with skip-the-line tickets and the highlights of Vatican, such as St. Peter's Square.

Rome Self-Drive Vespa with Photographer Licensed Required
User rated - 8.7/10

Rome Self-Drive Vespa with Photographer Licensed Required

1h 30m
FromFrom €113.33
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Your adventure begins at the Colosseum, where we’ll meet, provide you with your Vespa and helmet, and give you a quick safety briefing. This is also your first photo stop, so make sure to capture the moment before we hit the road. From there, we’ll pass by the Circo Massimo, the historic chariot racing stadium. Next, we’ll stop at Giardino degli Aranci, where we’ll spend 20 minutes soaking in the views and taking photos amidst the tranquil orange trees. We’ll continue with a pass by the famous Bocca della Verità, Piazza Venezia, the Pantheon, and Castel Sant'Angelo, where you’ll have plenty of opportunities to enjoy the sights. Our final stop is the Terrazza del Gianicolo, where we’ll spend 20 minutes enjoying stunning panoramic views of the city. Throughout the journey, your guide will lead the way, sharing fascinating stories about each landmark while also serving as your personal photographer, ensuring you have amazing photos to remember this unforgettable tour!

Tour of the main attractions of ancient and modern Rome.
User rated - 8.6/10

Tour of the main attractions of ancient and modern Rome.

1-9h
FromFrom €1061.29
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Our tours are designed to be able to see all the beauties of Rome in just one day. In each place we will stop for about 30 minutes. The places we're going to visit will be: The Vatican City, the Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain, Piazza Venezia, Piazza di Spagna, the Pantheon, Castel Sant'Angelo, Piazza Navona, Circus Maximus, panoramic view of the Janiculum.

Rome: Explore Top Attractions by Exclusive Golf Cart Tour
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Rome: Explore Top Attractions by Exclusive Golf Cart Tour

3h
FromFrom €93.5
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Explore Rome with a 3-hour electric golf cart tour, perfect for seeing the city's highlights without the hassle of walking. This eco-friendly tour offers comfort and a relaxed way to experience Rome's charm. Stroll through Villa Borghese, one of Rome's largest parks. Discover the historic Piazza del Popolo. Admire the iconic Spanish Steps. Toss a coin into the famous Trevi Fountain. Marvel at the grandeur of the Colosseum. Visit Piazza Venezia, a hub of history. Explore the Pantheon, nearly 2,000 years old. Relax at Piazza Navona with its beautiful fountains. Capture stunning views at Castel Sant'Angelo. Travel in an eco-friendly 5 or 7-seater golf cart, ensuring a quiet and intimate experience. With group sizes of just 5 to 7 people, enjoy a personalized journey as a knowledgeable guide shares Rome’s history. Cover more ground effortlessly and make the most of your time in the Eternal City.

Rome: Fiat 500 Vintage Car Tour with Personal Driver
User rated - 8.0/10

Rome: Fiat 500 Vintage Car Tour with Personal Driver

2h
FromFrom €94.44
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AN UNFORGETTABLE PASSENGER EXPERIENCE Hop on and enjoy an incredible ride through Rome's charming streets with our expert drivers leading the way. Our adventure kicks off on the historic Cavour Street, just a stone’s throw from the Colosseum, our first stop. We’ll have 10 minutes to snap some unforgettable photos on your Vespa. As we continue, you'll take in views of iconic landmarks like the Circus Maximus, Palatine Hill, and Aventine Hill on our way to the scenic Orange Garden. Next, we’ll ride through the lively Trastevere neighborhood and along the stunning Tiber River, heading toward the breathtaking Gianicolo Hill for panoramic views of the city. On our way to the grand Castel Sant'Angelo, built in 135 AD, you’ll get a glimpse of its incredible history. Our final stop is Colosseum, Infront of Palazzo Manfredi Jump on a Fiat 500, and let’s make some amazing memories as we explore the eternal beauty of Rome!

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Where is Castel Sant'Angelo in Rome

Getting to Castel Sant'Angelo

Reaching Castel Sant'Angelo is a straightforward journey from most parts of Rome. The easiest way is via the [Metro Line](/rome/travel-guides/metro-line-b-extended-service-hours-for-summer-season) A to the Lepanto or Ottaviano stations, both about a 15-minute walk to the castle. For those preferring buses, routes 23, 34, 49, and 87 will drop you nearby. Alternatively, enjoy a scenic stroll along the Tiber River if you're in the vicinity of Vatican City. The castle's proximity to central Rome means that walking is often the most pleasant and practical option for getting there. Parking in the area is limited and not recommended due to the city's heavy traffic and restricted zones.

Best Time to Visit Castel Sant'Angelo

To make the most of your visit, consider planning your trip during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) or fall (September to October). During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are more manageable. Summer, while popular, can be hot and crowded, especially in July and August. For a unique experience, visit in the early evening when the castle hosts special events like the 'Notti d'Estate a Castel Sant'Angelo,' offering extended hours and musical performances. The castle is open year-round, with hours typically from 9:00 AM to 7:30 PM.

Visitor Tips for Castel Sant'Angelo

When visiting Castel Sant'Angelo, wear comfortable shoes as you'll be navigating stairs and uneven surfaces. Photography is generally allowed, but flash photography and tripods are prohibited inside the museum. Consider purchasing tickets online in advance to skip the long queues, especially during peak tourist seasons. Guided tours are available and provide valuable insights into the castle's history and architecture. Accessibility is limited in some parts of the castle due to its historical structure, so visitors with mobility issues should plan accordingly. Finally, take time to enjoy a leisurely walk along the Ponte Sant'Angelo, which is beautifully lined with angel sculptures by Gian Lorenzo Bernini.

Nearby Attractions to Castel Sant'Angelo

While in the area, consider visiting some of Rome's other iconic sites. Just a short walk away is the Vatican City, home to St. Peter's Basilica and the [Vatican Museums](/rome/travel-guides/vatican-museums-announce-free-entry-sundays), including the [Sistine Chapel](/rome/travel-guides/the-sistine-chapel). Cross the Ponte Sant'Angelo, and you'll find yourself in the bustling Piazza [Navona](/rome/neighborhoods/navona), known for its stunning fountains and vibrant atmosphere. For a quieter experience, explore the charming neighborhood of [Trastevere](/rome/neighborhoods/trastevere), located across the river, where narrow cobblestone streets lead to quaint cafes and artisan shops. Each of these attractions is within a 15-20 minute walk from Castel Sant'Angelo, making them convenient additions to your itinerary.

Where to Stay near Castel Sant'Angelo

Una finestra su Castel Sant'Angelo
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Una finestra su Castel Sant'Angelo

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Conveniently situated in the Navona part of Rome, this property puts you close to attractions and interesting dining options. This 5-star property is packed with in-house facilities to improve the ...

Spring House Hotel Rome Vatican, Tapestry Collection Hilton
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Spring House Hotel Rome Vatican, Tapestry Collection Hilton

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Experience the perfect base for two travelers at Spring House Hotel Rome Vatican, Tapestry Collection Hilton. Ideally located near Vatican City, this hotel offers easy access to iconic landmarks li...

Vatican Rome
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Vatican Rome

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Situated near the iconic Vatican City, this hotel offers two travelers an ideal base for exploring Rome's rich history and stunning architecture. The peaceful yet vibrant neighborhood is dotted wit...

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Nearby Attractions to Explore

Beyond Rome's borders lie fascinating sites like Tivoli, home to the UNESCO-listed Villa d'Este, just 30 km away. This stunning Renaissance villa features elaborate fountains and beautiful gardens that have inspired artists for centuries.

What to See & Do in Rome

Rome is a treasure trove for explorers. Begin with the iconic Colosseum, where entrance fees start at €16. You can also enjoy numerous free attractions, like the awe-inspiring Pantheon. Don't miss the iconic Trevi Fountain, and be sure to climb the famous Spanish Steps.

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