Castel Sant'Angelo
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I'm not into touring monuments, crowds, lines, tourists or tours. However, I enjoyed my 30 or 40 minutes at Castel Sant' Angelo on a beautiful day in February. The crowds were on their tour busses somewhere else, and the castel itself was fun to stroll through, checking out both the fortifications and the opulence. Photo opportunities from the top floors were inspiring. Work up an appetite at Castel Sant' Angelo and walk into the Centro Storico for lunch at Coline Emilane.
Great medieval castle very interesting to see the construction and design. There is a nice cafe where you can coffee and paninis. I also enjoyed the smaller installations in some of the rooms--one featuring photos the last pope, another one about Italian cinema. The rooftop with the bronze statue is where Tosca's ending is set.
We went around 6pm and it was a perfect time. It was cooler and less crowded. We weren't really sure what to expect but it's quite comprehensive inside. Unfortunately we were both jet lagged which likely impacted our experience. Loved the views at the top. Would have enjoyed drinking an aperol spritz up there but we were too tired.
Stunning castle!!!! I mean, wow. It's beautiful! What a magnificent museum in Rome. I'm surprised this isn't a more popular destination. You always hear about Trevi Fountain, the Vatican and the Colosseum. But you don't hear about Saint Angelo's Castle. And that's unfortunate because it is just is cool as some of those other places. I'm so glad we had to see this museum!
The Castel Sant'Angelo, aka the Mausoleum of Hadrian, is a towering cylindrical building. It was initially commissioned by the Roman Emperor Hadrian as a mausoleum for himself and his family, and the popes later used the building as a fortress and castle. The structure was once the tallest building in Rome, I like it as you can explore the different sides of Rome city views and the river of Tiber, also overlook the Vatican City.
This is worth a trip to go into it has a lot of history. It was a prison, palace, and a fortress. There is definitely a level of walking going up and down stairs and pathways until you reach almost the very top and you have an awesome view of Roma. There is also a cafe on the top where you can eat and drink and soak in teh view. There is a lot of history and items to look at here. Inside and out.
We walked here as there was no convenient metro stop close by. There may be a city bus route...? Afterwards we had access to a hop on / hop off bus that had a stop just across the Tiber. We arrived here around 4 p.m. as this was a covered stop on our city pass. A bit earlier, a company rep at the Pantheon had called ahead to put us on the list for this site (it hadn't seemed like it required an advance reservation, but it might be worth checking on). We crossed the bridge over the Tiber that leads directly to Castel Sant'Angelo. The statuary on the bridge is worth checking out, and the view of the castle is great for photos as you approach. We made it to the entrance, but didn't initially see a company rep with an orange umbrella, as expected. However, we turned around and found her off to the side next to the river. We then had to negotiate the ticket-generation process. She apparently wanted to use a couple of messaging apps that none of us had. In the end, she just kept the tickets on her on phone and escorted us in so that she could show / explain to the staff that we should be admitted. It seems like there could be a better way than this, but it worked... The main draw here turned out to be the views from the top. The architecture is interesting - this began as Hadrian's tomb and originally multiple emperors' ashes were stored here. Then it evolved into a papal fortress and treasury. Most of the artifacts have been removed, so what you are left with is a formidable building without much inside. Don't expect galleries of statues, artwork, etc. There are a few exhibits here and there along your ascent. The only elevator was for staff only. You first walk most of the way around the circular base and then begin your ascent. You climb a long ramp, which leads to another ramp that traverses the center of the building. You eventually exit out onto a series of terraces and continue climbing stairs. At one point there is a small restaurant / bar with some nice views, but we were not yet hungry. You eventually come out onto a rectangular space close to the top of the castle. From here you have nice views of the city in 3 directions (the 4th is blocked by some remaining structure of the castle). We were fortunate enough to visit a bit before sunset, so the views were enhanced by the late afternoon lighting. It got a bit crowded here, but with a bit of patience it wasn't hard to get to whatever area of the perimeter you wanted for photos. This is definitely worth a stop, as long as you know what to expect at the outset. It is close to the Vatican, so you may want to combine visiting both on the same day (we did not).
Let's just say that I never thought that a savory meal and drinks in a cemetery could be cool! Yet, Castel Sant'Angelo changed my mind. I became aware that the place was actually built as a mausoleum for a Roman Emperor and his family. It is also the site of an old prison, where a number of executions took place. Yet, I also found that it is also a place with an AMAZING view of Rome! Please don't miss this stop on your trip to Rome! Please! Please! Please, visit the rooftop restaurant for amazing food and drinks while you admire the amazing views! You can thank me later!
The Castle of the Holy Angel was built in 123 AD. initially it was commissioned by the Roman Emperor Hadrian as a mausoleum for himself and his family. The building was later used by the popes as a fortress and castle, and is now a museum. The structure was once the tallest building in Rome. The top statue is of Michael the Archangel, the angel from whom the building derives its name. This Amazing the castle is opened in the evening, admission is €12 and they have concerts and all kinds of things happening. The castle is Spectacular during the day and at night it was magical and lights up the sky. The huge stone wall and surrounding moat are very impressive.
Originally built by Emperor Hadrian as a mausoleum for himself and his successors, Castel Sant'Angelo is more than just a tomb. It became a fortress and a passageway connecting to the Vatican (remember Angels and Demons?) accessed by the popes who used the Castel as their apartments. For us, it served as a refuge from a downpour and provided us with a history lesson. The grounds are free, but going inside the Castelo is 9 euro/person (not including audio guide!) The entrance to the fortress starts with the famous winding ramp about 400 feet long, you'll land on the 2nd floor where the historical prisons are located. It wasn't super crowded when we visited so the eerie vibe was definitely there. At the papal floor, you'll see the loggia of Julius II by Bramante and magnificent rooms with frescoes done by Italian painters. At the terrazzo, you can see the Archangel in bronze and also breath taking views of the Tiber River and St. Peter's basilica. If you decide to not to pay the admission fee, you can roam castle grounds, which are well maintained and provide nice photo ops for folks with the fancy cameras. It's a 10-12 walk from St. Peter's square and if you take Via della Conciliazione, it'll lead you straight to the Castel. read more
11 years ago
When our taxi drops us off at this museum.... WOW!!! Feel like at the movie set. This castle is really stunning. Walking on the bridge towards to castle, feeling very excited to be standing on part of the history! The admission ticket is a little bit less than 10 euro. People are waiting in line even before the opening time. The castle is situated on huge land. Surrounding area, they use it for street vendors. From this castle, walking distance to St. Peter square to the next tourist attraction spot. read more
6 years ago
Featured in the (2009) movie "Angels and Demons", Castle of the Holy Angels has had a long and colorful history. Completed in 139 AD under Emperor Hadrian, it was initially intended to hold the funeral ashes of Hadrian thus called Hadrian's Mausoleum. Later it held the ashes of Marcus Aurelius and Septime Severus as well. A ticket will cost 10.5 Euro, EU citizens between 15-18 years 7 Euro and under 18 yrs. or over 65 years for Eu citizens is free. There are both signs in English and Italian giving some information. Guide books and audio downloads enrich the experience. By 401 AD the Alaric Visigoths challenged stormed the castle only to find it had been converted to a fortress. A small military museum is now present. By 1527 a passettodi Borso (passage way) connected the Vatican to Sant' Angelo's and Pope Clement VII used it to escape and find refuge. There are papal apartments, prisons and torture chambers. Executions by decapitation were held in the courtyard. The present statue of Saint Michael whose sword ended the great plague of 590 AD adorns the top of the Castel. It was crafted in 1753 by Peter Anton von Verscaffelt, Today the Castel is called the National Museum of Castel Sant'Angelo. It houses Renaissance paintings, antique military weapons and magnificent frescoes. There are cafes, and great views of St. Peter's and Rome. Take bus 40 (Express) or the Metro (Lepanto) Line A) if you can. Driving and parking in Rome is legendarily frustrating and taxing both mentally and physically. read more
Structurally this place is pretty massive but I will say that I was overall disappointed. There was a line outside and they only let about 100-200 people in at a time so at peak times you may find yourself waiting for a while to get in. Luckily, they were moving the lines pretty quickly when we went in order to clear the museum for an event they were having later in the evening. Navigating the twists and turns and steep upgrades as you wind your way through the labyrinth within the castle can be a bit exhausting. Just when you think the steps and slopes are done, you round the corner and there is another slope. I will say that I don't think I saw any elevators or anything for those that need wheel chair access, so you may want to look into that before coming here or you'll really be disappointed. One positive is the awesome view of the Vatican from the top. We got up there right as the sun was setting so the colors of the sun radiating off Basilica di San Pietro gave it a wonderful silhouette. One downside to the roof top is that it was very crowded and you can only enter or exit in one very narrow winding staircase. If people are coming up, you have to back out to the roof top and wait for everyone to finishing coming up. It's kind of rudimentary so wait about 5-10 seconds and if no one comes, make your way down. Also, be aware of those infernal selfie sticks. People spin around like dervishes, all the while wielding those sticks increasing the risk to all of losing an eye or cracking a crown or veneer. Take in the moment with your eyes, maybe snap one pic, and head on to your next destination. When you're done, grab a gelato and take a walk down the waterway outside. It a fun & cool way to relax. By the way it was normally 10 Euros to get in, but we go in for free as it was the first Sunday in the month. Check the website for other times when fares are reduced. read more
6 years ago
It was beautiful Sunday afternoon we crossed the bridge of Saint Angelo to see the castle. There was not alot of tourist and the museum is temporary closed. read more
Just a short walk from the Vatican, you can get a great view of the Tiber River from this location. Best of all, it's FREE ADMISSION! Yes, you bet I am excited when it comes to free stuff. Especially when I had to pay up to 2euros to go to the bathroom! Unfortunately, I was behind schedule and didn't have time to go inside, but I did enjoy the view from Museo Castel Sant'Angelo and the statutes on the bridge. read more
6 years ago
It really stands out at night with all the lights illuminating this fascinating structure! When you hear castle, you don't really think of this building, it doesn't look like a castle in the traditional sense, but it had some similar features such as tall outer walls with grooves at the top. I would imagine it more like a fortress. I didn't go inside, but I did walk by and admire it for a bit. If you're only planning on walking by, it probably isn't worth the visit, but it might be a lot better if you go inside! read more
Castel Sant'Angelo is a castle in Rome. It was beautiful to walk through. There was a little bit of a line, but nothing as bad as some of the lines you will experience at the more popular destinations such as the Coliseum. We went at 11am and we waited for about 15 minutes in line. The price wasn't much at all. It ended up costing about 14 euro per person. We didn't get a tour, but this was one of the only museums where you didn't need one. You can walk through and take your time reading the descriptions. There is so much history you can easily kill a few hours, but it won't take up your whole day. Also, this was one of the only locations that wasn't packed. However, as we were exiting the line was definitely getting longer, so the earlier the better for this place. You want to make sure you get there at a decent time. Overall, it is a place you want to check out when escaping the more populated destinations. (This review was from a trip taken in the middle of March. June may have a larger number of attendees) read more
8 years ago
My 100th review goes to Castel Sant'Angelo. After spending the day in Vatican City and doing tons of walking, my friend and I almost called it quits and went to dinner BUT we gathered up the strength to push through and walk to Castel Sant'Angelo. On our way there, a woman was playing the harp (literally angelic) and the sun was setting, which I took as a divine sign that we were headed in the right direction *cue angels singing in perfect harmony.* We purchased our tickets and headed off on our self-guided tour, and wow, these views did NOT disappoint. We got some amazing pictures and videos of the sun setting over Vatican City (I'll post them here) which were priceless. The castle also has a bunch of different quarters to discover and statues of St. Michael the Archangel which I was very happy to see. I wish some of the rooms and statues had more information about the history so that we could have made the most of the self-guided tour, but overall this was a great experience. FYI - the top level of the castle has a bar/restaurant which was GORGEOUS. While walking by, we got some amazing pictures and videos. If I visit here again, I'll be sure to stop for a glass of wine. It's the perfect ambiance! read more
The top of this castle is the highlight of this trip. You can see the Vatican city from the top which is really awesome. This castle is so ancient and was preserved nicely. There is a moat in this castle. There is a cafe' inside this castle which has a great view. Be ready for lots of walking and climbing the stairs. I suggest purchasing the tickets online before going. It took us about 2 hours or more on this attraction admiring the view of Vatican city. read more
A tomb, prison, home, and fortress all throughout time! Very awesome landmark to see if you are around Vatican City. We walked here after we saw the Vatican. I enjoyed the architecture of castle. Reminded me of a smaller Colosseum surrounded by walls. Pretty massive for a tomb. You can visit the museum at a cost or you can just admire the site from the outside like I did. read more
9 years ago
Always want to go this place. Finally got a chance, first Sunday of the month entrance is free. Got to the bar have lunch with great 360 view. Recommend to visit this place. read more
Like something out of a renaissance movie, beautiful with gorgeous views from the top. They have a cute little coffee/drink stop up there and you can sit on these bistro tables that overlook the city. The architect of this place is so beautiful. The sculptures and the rooms with the arched ceilings are gorgeous. Pictures do not capture it's beauty, if you have little time here with all the things to see, put this stop on the top of your list. See my other pics not attached to this review read more
"As one does in the Tower of London, that nothing cheerful could ever have happened there." - H.V. Morton As one of Rome's main icons, Castel Sant'Angelo (Castle of the Holy Angel) isn't exactly a happy place even since its creation. Starting as the Mausoleum of Hadrian that was later looted, the Vatican converted this place as a defensive garrison that doubled as the Pope's secret prison and backup residence, which was used by Pope Clement VII to escape the Vatican during the Sack of Rome. Yep, not exactly a happy place. However today, Castel Sant'Angelo is now a national museum under Italy, and thanks to its fortified walls and status as the Pope's escape room, this ancient structure is incredibly well-preserved! You can walk along the edge of the fortified walls to imagine what Rome was like during its Sack from this safe vantage, or deep within the fortress through the confusing corridor. Inside if you are not too lost, you will find few antique courtyards (which sadly were served as secret execution plazas) and beautifully painted fresco apartments after a Pope tried to cheer up his backup residence. If you managed to successfully navigate to the end, you will be rewarded to the very top of Castel Sant'Angelo that is topped by the titular angel and the beautiful close view of the Vatican that the vantage point offers! Overall, Castel Sant'Angelo is an interesting landmark in Rome to visit, and it's a must for anyone interested in Roman history! Despite its modifications through its history, Castel Sant'Angelo is one of the few intact ancient Roman structure. If you are not that into Roman history though, seeing outside especially from the beautiful Ponte Sant'Angelo may suffice if your time is short and you are interested in somewhere else. --- tl;dr version: 1) A former mausoleum later converted to Pope's defensive backup 2) Interesting national museum with blend of depressing funerary decor and cheerful Renaissance art 3) Interesting destination though not a must-go if you are not into Roman history read more
Castel Sant'Angelo was originally built circa 135 C.E. as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian. It was also used as a burial site for several other emperors before being converted to a fortress during the early part of the 5th Century. Throughout the middle ages, the castle served as the residence of the Pope during times of war and danger. If you're on a mission and moving quickly, you can probably complete a full tour of the castle within an hour. The papal apartments are the biggest draw, but the highlight for me was the beautiful views of Rome from the top. read more
Very beautiful and cool castle! We came here on August 2 2015, which was the first Sunday of the month and it was free. Upon entering there was a small line, which is understandable as it was peak Summer season. Then when we entered we roamed around the grounds, went underground ( very interesting!) and then went all the way to the top to see the gorgeous views. This is a must see when going to Rome. The views from the top really are a must see and are 360 degree view of Roman Beauty! read more
7 years ago
This was one of my favorite attractions in Rome! The views were absolutely spectacular! Definitely worth the price and it took us a couple of hours to get through the whole castle. I loved that the place was set up with signs directing you where to go next, so I didn't feel like I was missing anything and felt that I got to see a lot. If anything, come visit just for the amazing panoramic view of the entire city. read more
It's freeeeee! This Castle stands strongly at the Tiber River and in the shadow of the Vatican. The Ponte Sant'Angelo leads right into this historic landmark featured in Dan Brown's Angels & Demons. This definately worth a stop when in Rome. read more
Another place to see in Rome. It's a old castle not too far from the Vatican. Lots of vendors outside selling religious souvenirs and people doing performances to try and earn tips. It's right next to a river too. Lot of people just hanging around people watching and enjoying the day. If you keep walking down the path you will see more restaurants and vendors read more
14 years ago
I'm not sure why everyone says this place was free: it isn't. Unless me and other other people I saw in line that day were all just paying involuntarily donations. This place looks like it should be really cool on the outside. I found it kind of small on the inside, and while there are some nice rooms they don't allow pictures (always a minus in my opinion) and there isn't much here that I would write home about. Indeed when I did write home I don't believe I mentioned this place. If it's free: visit. Can't beat free. Otherwise? I see no reason to unless you're spending enough time in Rome not to sacrifice seeing something else more awesome... which there is plenty of in Rome. read more
10 years ago
This is a great spot to climb up the stairs and journey to the roof to get a great elevated view of St. Peter's Square and the entire surrounding area. The roof view is great! The castle is cool too, the history of most things in Rome is captivating to say the least.... Definitely worth a stop... At night locals kind of hang out all over in squares and areas like this too... read more
Featured in Julia Robert's film Eat, Pray, Love...this historic building definitely has amazing views from the top. This is also where Michael the Archangel statue can be found. I recommend coming before sunset and stay for that perfect sunset shot. You can explore at your pace and just roam around the rooms, hallways, and rooftop. When I visited in 11/25/2012 the entrance fee was €10.50. read more
7 years ago
We were in Rome in July 2018 and I missed a visit to Castel Sant' Angelo. My family said this was good so we opted to visit on January 5. We arrived just about opening time (around 9:00 am) and there was no line and very few people visiting throughout our time there. This site ended up being one of my favorite places to visit in Rome. The history and architecture are amazing and the view from the top and mid-section are fantastic. St. Peter's Basilica is close by so views of that area from the castle are super. The weather was cool but not too cold and much better than in the summer without the heat and crowds. I recommend a visit. read more
15 years ago
I feel like more people visit this site now because of, yet another Dan Brown book/movie, Angels & Demons. It is located off of Ponte Sant'Angelo and that would be the best photo taking place for it, though you do have to walk around the castle a bit to get to the museum entrance. The museum itself has pretty cool artwork, way better than the artwork at Castel Nuovo in Napoli. Unfortunately, it is a no photo zone though. The architecture is amazing, though it does give me a creepy vibe. I think that's because I was there at night and it's supposed to be a mausoleum for the Roman Emperor Hadrian. Aside from being an emperor's tomb, it has also been a fortress and a castle. So much history for one building! Aside from being beautifully picturesque on its own, it also offers an amazing view of Vatican City and you can see the lights of St. Peter's Basilica from the castle. Usually there's an entrance fee for the museum. But I think we chanced upon a music night or something? And admission was free, saved us a good 8.50 Euros each. read more
Unfortunately, we didn't make it to the top to get the great views of the city, however I didn't feel short-changed. The castle itself is quite stunning, but then again, most of "old Rome" is. It's billed as a museum, but its not in a traditional sense of artwork and the likes. The art is the building itself. read more
8 years ago
Very interesting 2nd century castle. There's no need to use the app or do a real tour, as there are written out cards in every room, in both Italian and English. Gorgeous views of Rome from the upper levels / roof of the castle. We went around 4 pm and by the time it was 5:30, we're able to enjoy a gorgeous sunset over Rome from the roof. read more
8 years ago
Awesome castle...the mobile tour was really cool and it wasn't pricey at all! Made me want to watch Da Vinci Code all over again. read more
12 years ago
7 years ago
10 years ago
This was my favorite tourist attraction in Rome. It wasn't overcrowded when we went, and it was really cool to be able to walk through and see everything. I got some really great pictures and enjoyed my experience here. read more
8 years ago
11 years ago
FREE ADMISSION!!! I climbed all the way to the top and looked at the bridge across the Tiber river with all the statues and let out a deep sigh. I finally made it to that beginning scene from the movie angels and demons, which also happens to be one of my favorite books. read more
8 years ago
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Castel Sant'Angelo - museums - Updated May 2026
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