Name: Castel Sant'Angelo
Address: Lungotevere Castello, 50, 00193 Roma RM, Italy
Telephone: 06 681 9111
Rating: 4.7

Circular, 2nd-century castle housing furniture & paintings collections in Renaissance apartments.

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In 1367, the keys to Castel Sant'Angelo were handed over to Pope Urban V, marking a significant moment in the return of the papacy to Rome after its exile in Avignon.

Return to Rome

The museum of Castel Sant'Angelo is spread across seven levels, each reflecting different architectural styles and the various uses the monument has seen throughout history.

Levels of History

Inside Castel Sant'Angelo, a circular stone with carved footprints is believed to be the mark left by the Archangel Michael during his celestial ascension.

Archangel Michael's Mark

Castel Sant'Angelo has served as a fortress, prison, castle, papal residence, barracks, and finally, a museum, showcasing its rich and diverse history.

From Fortress to Art

Castel Sant'Angelo, a towering cylindrical structure in Rome, Italy, was initially built as Emperor Hadrian's mausoleum. Later transformed into a papal fortress, it served as a refuge for Pope Clement VII during the Sack of Rome. The castle's iconic name originates from a legend involving the Archangel Michael sheathing his sword atop the building, signifying the end of a plague. Notably, Benvenuto Cellini was imprisoned within its walls, where he recounted strolling the ramparts and engaging in combat. The castle boasts a chapel adorned with a Madonna by Raffaello da Montelupo and a marble statue of Saint Michael, later replaced by a bronze version by Peter Anton von Verschaffelt. Today, Castel Sant'Angelo stands as a museum, showcasing its rich history and offering breathtaking views of Rome from its terrace.

Introduction

Castel Sant'Angelo, an imposing cylindrical fortress, stands as a testament to Rome's military prowess. Initially conceived as Emperor Hadrian's mausoleum, it was later transformed into a formidable stronghold, guarding the northern approach to the city. Its strategic location on the banks of the Tiber River made it a crucial defensive outpost during barbarian invasions.

In the Middle Ages, Castel Sant'Angelo became a papal fortress, connected to the Vatican by the fortified Passetto di Borgo. Its thick walls, reinforced towers, and ample provisions ensured its resilience during sieges. The fortress played a pivotal role in the defense of the papacy, serving as a refuge for popes during times of conflict.

Beyond its defensive capabilities, Castel Sant'Angelo also housed a garrison and served as a prison. Its dungeons held notable figures such as Giordano Bruno and Benvenuto Cellini. The fortress's grim history is reflected in the executions carried out in its inner courtyard.

Today, Castel Sant'Angelo stands as a museum, offering visitors a glimpse into its rich military past. Its exhibits showcase weapons, armor, and artifacts that tell the story of its transformation from an imperial tomb to a formidable fortress. The castle's imposing presence and captivating history make it a must-visit destination for those interested in military architecture and the tumultuous history of Rome.

Military Fortress

Castel Sant'Angelo, a towering cylindrical structure in Rome, Italy, holds a significant place in history as the Mausoleum of Hadrian, the Roman emperor who commissioned its construction in the 2nd century AD. Initially adorned with a garden top and golden quadriga, the mausoleum served as the final resting place for Hadrian, his wife Sabina, and his adopted son Lucius Aelius. Over time, it became the burial site for subsequent emperors, with the last recorded deposition being that of Caracalla in 217 AD.

The mausoleum's grandeur was short-lived, as its contents and decorations were plundered during the Visigoth sacking of Rome in 410 AD. The bronze and stone statuary that once adorned the structure was hurled down upon the attacking Goths during the siege of Rome in 537 AD. Despite these losses, the mausoleum's imposing presence remained, and it was later converted into a military fortress and incorporated into the Aurelian Walls.

Legend has it that the Archangel Michael appeared atop the mausoleum during the plague of 590 AD, sheathing his sword as a sign of the end of the epidemic. This event gave rise to the castle's current name, Castel Sant'Angelo, meaning "Castle of the Holy Angel." The mausoleum's transformation from a tomb to a fortress and papal residence reflects its enduring significance throughout Roman history.

Hadrian's Tomb

Castel Sant'Angelo, an ancient Roman fortress, is renowned for its captivating Bernini sculptures. The most notable is the "Angel with the Cross," a majestic bronze sculpture that crowns the castle's summit. Bernini's genius is evident in the angel's dynamic pose and intricate details, capturing the essence of divine intervention.

Within the castle's interior, visitors can marvel at Bernini's "Putti with the Instruments of the Passion," a series of exquisite marble sculptures depicting cherubs holding symbols of Christ's crucifixion. These sculptures, with their delicate features and expressive gestures, showcase Bernini's mastery of emotional storytelling.

Another highlight is the "Pietà," a poignant marble sculpture located in the castle's chapel. Bernini's depiction of Mary cradling the body of Christ is both heart-wrenching and awe-inspiring, conveying the depth of human suffering and divine sacrifice.

Castel Sant'Angelo's Bernini sculptures are not merely decorative embellishments but integral elements of the castle's history and significance. They provide a unique lens through which to appreciate the artistic genius of Bernini and the enduring legacy of the Roman Empire.

Bernini's Sculptures

Castel Sant'Angelo, an architectural marvel in Rome, Lazio, Italy, stands as a testament to the ingenuity and grandeur of ancient Roman engineering. Originally conceived as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian, this cylindrical structure has undergone remarkable transformations over the centuries, serving as a fortress, papal residence, and now a museum. Its imposing cylindrical form, adorned with intricate carvings and statues, reflects the architectural prowess of its time. The bridge connecting it to the city, the Ponte Sant'Angelo, adds to its allure, creating a picturesque ensemble.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Castel Sant'Angelo boasts a rich history intertwined with the fate of Rome. Its thick walls have witnessed papal conclaves, imprisonments, and even executions, adding layers of intrigue to its architectural significance. The interiors, once adorned with lavish frescoes and mosaics, now house a captivating museum showcasing ancient sculptures, medieval weaponry, and papal artifacts.

The rooftop terrace of Castel Sant'Angelo offers breathtaking panoramic views of Rome, making it a popular destination for tourists and photographers alike. From this vantage point, visitors can admire the city's iconic landmarks, including St. Peter's Basilica and the Tiber River, while contemplating the architectural marvel that is Castel Sant'Angelo.

Architectural Marvel

Castel Sant'Angelo, a towering cylindrical fortress in Rome, stands as a testament to Michelangelo's architectural genius. Initially commissioned by Emperor Hadrian as a mausoleum, the castle underwent significant transformations over the centuries. In the 16th century, Pope Paul III entrusted Michelangelo with the task of fortifying the castle, a project that would forever leave its mark on the structure.

Michelangelo's influence is evident in the castle's imposing bastions and ramparts, designed to withstand artillery fire. He also added a series of elegant cornices and moldings, lending a touch of Renaissance grandeur to the otherwise austere fortress. The most striking feature, however, is the massive bronze angel that crowns the castle, a symbol of the archangel Michael who, according to legend, appeared during a plague in 590 AD, sheathing his sword to signal the end of the epidemic.

Michelangelo's architectural interventions not only enhanced the castle's defensive capabilities but also transformed it into a symbol of papal power and prestige. Today, Castel Sant'Angelo stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Michelangelo, a master whose influence extended far beyond the realm of painting and sculpture.

Michaelangelo's Influence

During the Renaissance, Castel Sant'Angelo underwent a transformation, emerging as a vibrant hub for artistic expression. Pope Nicholas V commissioned renowned architect Antonio da Sangallo the Younger to design the majestic Sala Paolina, adorned with intricate frescoes by Melozzo da Forlì depicting the life of Pope Sixtus IV. The Sala del Perseo, named after the captivating bronze statue of Perseus holding the head of Medusa, showcased the exceptional artistry of Benvenuto Cellini. The castle's papal apartments, once the private chambers of popes, were embellished with stunning Renaissance-style decorations, including the Sala dei Festoni, adorned with delicate garlands and cherubs. The Sala del Tesoro, believed to have been Hadrian's tomb, housed a collection of precious artifacts and masterpieces, reflecting the artistic patronage of the Renaissance popes.

Renaissance Art

Castel Sant'Angelo, an iconic landmark in Rome, is renowned for its historical significance and architectural grandeur. One of its most intriguing features is the Passetto di Borgo, a secret passageway that connects the castle to the Vatican City. Built in the 13th century by Pope Nicholas III, this elevated corridor served as an escape route for popes during times of danger.

The Passetto di Borgo, spanning approximately 800 meters, offers a unique perspective of Rome's cityscape. It traverses the rooftops of buildings, providing breathtaking views of St. Peter's Basilica, the Tiber River, and the surrounding cityscape. Visitors can explore this hidden gem through guided tours, gaining insights into its historical significance and architectural details.

The passageway is adorned with frescoes and artwork, adding to its aesthetic appeal. It also features defensive elements such as drawbridges and fortified towers, reflecting its original purpose as a protective measure for the papacy. Today, the Passetto di Borgo stands as a testament to the ingenuity and foresight of medieval architects, offering a glimpse into the intricate history of Rome and the Vatican.

Passetto di Borgo

Castel Sant'Angelo, an ancient fortress in Rome, played a pivotal role in the life of the renowned artist and adventurer, Benvenuto Cellini. In 1538, Cellini was imprisoned within the castle's formidable walls on charges of embezzlement and murder. His incarceration marked a tumultuous period in his life, leaving an indelible mark on both the artist and the castle itself.

Cellini's initial confinement was in a relatively comfortable apartment overlooking the castle's courtyard. However, his restless spirit and audacious nature led him to attempt an escape. Using knotted bed sheets, he descended from his window but suffered a broken leg in the fall. This mishap resulted in his transfer to a cramped and unsanitary underground cell, where he endured harsh conditions.

Despite his imprisonment, Cellini's creativity and resilience shone through. He found solace in art, sketching and writing in the margins of his Bible. His most famous work from this period is a drawing of a resurrected Christ, still visible on the cell's wall.

Cellini's incarceration lasted for several years, during which he experienced both despair and moments of inspiration. His eventual release came through the intervention of powerful patrons and the intercession of the French king. The experience left a profound impact on Cellini, shaping his worldview and inspiring his later artistic endeavors.

Today, visitors to Castel Sant'Angelo can explore the cell where Cellini was held, gaining a glimpse into the life and struggles of this extraordinary artist. The castle's rich history and Cellini's personal narrative intertwine, offering a unique and captivating chapter in the annals of art and history.

Cellini's Incarceration

Castel Sant'Angelo, an imposing cylindrical fortress in Rome, served as a crucial refuge for the papacy during times of turmoil and danger. In the 14th century, Pope Nicholas III fortified the structure and connected it to St. Peter's Basilica via the Passetto di Borgo, a concealed fortified corridor. This strategic connection allowed the pope to flee to the castle in times of siege or threat.

The castle's thick walls and strategic location on the banks of the Tiber River made it an impenetrable fortress. Popes such as Clement VII sought refuge within its walls during the Sack of Rome in 1527, when the city was ravaged by Charles V's troops. The castle's papal apartments, built by Paul III, provided a luxurious and secure residence for the pope during periods of unrest.

Beyond its defensive role, Castel Sant'Angelo also served as a prison for those who incurred the wrath of the papacy. Notable inmates included the philosopher Giordano Bruno, who was imprisoned for six years, and the magician Cagliostro. Executions were carried out in the castle's small inner courtyard, a grim reminder of its dual nature as both a sanctuary and a place of punishment.

The castle's significance as a papal refuge extended beyond its physical fortifications. It became a symbol of the pope's temporal power and his ability to withstand adversity. The presence of the pope within its walls during times of crisis reassured the faithful and bolstered the authority of the papacy.

Papal Refuge

Castel Sant'Angelo, a towering cylindrical structure in Rome, holds significant Christian symbolism. Initially built as Emperor Hadrian's mausoleum, it was later transformed into a papal fortress and castle. Its name, meaning "Castle of the Holy Angel," originates from a legend where Archangel Michael appeared atop the castle, sheathing his sword to signify the end of a plague in 590 AD. This event is commemorated by a marble statue of Saint Michael holding his sword, which replaced an earlier statue by Raffaello da Montelupo.

The castle's strategic location near St. Peter's Basilica and the Vatican made it a crucial defensive outpost for the papacy. It was connected to the basilica by the Passetto di Borgo, a fortified corridor, allowing popes to seek refuge during sieges. The castle's interior features a chapel adorned with a Madonna by Raffaello da Montelupo, adding to its religious significance.

Over the centuries, Castel Sant'Angelo has witnessed numerous events and transformations, each leaving its mark on its Christian symbolism. It served as a prison, holding notable figures like Giordano Bruno and Benvenuto Cellini, and its executions were carried out in the small inner courtyard. The castle's resilience and adaptability reflect the enduring power of Christian faith and the role it has played in shaping Rome's history.

Castel Sant'Angelo

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Return to Rome

Levels of History

Archangel Michael's Mark

From Fortress to Art

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