Castel Sant'Angelo

Things to Do in Castel Sant'Angelo

Monte Sant'Angelo Archaeological Sites

The Monte Sant'Angelo Archaeological Sites are special spots near the historic fort that show parts of an ancient Greek town. It's a great place for history buffs to check out and learn about people and times from way back. Plus, the view of Sicily's beautiful scenery adds to the whole experience. Explore and discover the tales of old civilizations in this amazing setting!

Castel Sant'Angelo's Chapel Remnants

Inside the fortress of Castel Sant'Angelo, discover the intriguing remnants of an old chapel, providing a look into the spiritual life of the past. All kinds of prayers and stories once filled this space as you wander through. Though small, this chapel holds a big piece of the castle's history, waiting for curious explorers like you to dive deeper and discover its mysteries.

National Museum of Castel Sant'Angelo Rome

The National Museum of Castel Sant'Angelo, also called the Mausoleum of Hadrian or Museo Nazionale di Castel, is a legendary fortress by the Tiber River in Rome, which connects to the Vatican through the Passetto di Borgo. Explore inside the Vatican Museums of Castel Sant'Angelo, which lets you see the famous outdoor scenery display, restored shops from the 15th century, lots of art pieces, statues, and frescoes. Plus, you can even take a tour with an audio guide of the Papal Apartments filled with genuine historic furnishings. If you have a ROMA PASS, you can enter the museum for free!

Passetto di Borgo

The Passetto di Borgo is a raised walkway connecting Castel Sant'Angelo to Vatican City. It was built in 1277 by Pope Nicholas III as an escape route for popes during attacks. Popes like Alexander VI and Clement VII used it for safety. You can see the passage from the castle, and sometimes it's open to the public in the summer.

Hadrian's Tomb

Although Castel Sant'Angelo, or Museo Nazionale di Castel Sant'Angelo in Rome, has had many roles over time, it was originally built in AD 139 as Hadrian's mausoleum. Located by the River Tiber, Hadrian's ashes were placed there a year after his death.

The remains of his wife, Sabina, his son Lucius Aelius, and later emperors up to Caracalla in AD 217 were also stored there. Aside from this tomb or mausoleum, Hadrian is famous for constructing other sites like the Temple of Venus & Roma, the Pantheon, and the Villa at Tivoli.

Nearby Attractions

The Sistine Chapel is one of the most iconic sites in Vatican City, renowned for Michelangelo’s breathtaking ceiling frescoes and The Last Judgment above the altar. As you step inside, you'll be surrounded by stunning Renaissance art that tells biblical stories in vivid color and detail.

Don’t miss St. Peter's Basilica, another must-see near Castel Sant'Angelo. This world-famous church is one of the largest and most important in Christianity. Marvel at its grand dome, designed in part by Michelangelo, and explore the rich interiors filled with timeless art and treasures.