9 Castel Sant'Angelo Facts You Must Know Before Visiting!

Facts About Castel Sant'Angelo

1. Originally a Mausoleum
2. Fortress Evolution
3. Angel Vision
4. Vatican Link
5. Papal Home
6. Renaissance Enhancements
7. Prison Era
8. Museum Attraction
9. Famous Bridge

Castel Sant'Angelo, initially built as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian in 135 AD, evolved over centuries into a fortress, papal residence, and prison. As per Castel Sant'Angelo facts, it was originally a tomb and then it was fortified with thick walls and a drawbridge. During the Renaissance, it received enhancements, including bastions and ornate decorations.

The castle’s link to the Vatican via the Passetto di Borgo provided a secure escape route for popes during sieges. It also played a crucial role as a refuge for popes like Clement VII during the Sack of Rome in 1527. The museum displays Roman antiquities, Renaissance art, and papal memorabilia, with highlights like the "Treasure Room" and ancient prison cells.

The Ponte Sant'Angelo, leading to the castle, features ten angel statues by Gian Lorenzo Bernini and offers views of the Vatican and Rome's skyline. Originally named "Ponte Elio," the bridge is a key historical feature.

Here are 9 surprising facts about Castel Sant'Angelo you likely haven't heard:

Italy Tour Packages Explore All (65)

9D/8N

523 Ratings

Best of Switzerland & Italy with FREE Excursion to Mount Titlis

₹ 265,185 ₹ 143,200 per adult

Marvel at the picturesque corners of Venice

13D/12N

541 Ratings

Italy Swiss France Netherlands with FREE Excursion to Mount Pilatus

₹ 403,615 ₹ 189,699 per adult

11D/10N

306 Ratings

Europe in a Nutshell

₹ 277,800 ₹ 230,000 per adult

11D/10N

587 Ratings

Western Europe In A Nutshell

₹ 207,120 ₹ 172,000 per adult

P4pgf7npheqbsnltei9cz6galn6j 1594700060 shutterstock 517522957

7D/6N

96 Ratings

Enchanting Italy | Weeklong Journey of Delight

₹ 151,600 ₹ 114,599 per adult

4yltmbelwurvnne430ea0ogaqwfn 1467728578 colosseum in rome italy april 2007

9D/8N

34 Ratings

Tour Italy over 9 Days

₹ 101,575 ₹ 81,260 per adult

907vp4yaejdrgr7zt6mz6226ccwp 1594701063 shutterstock 395520520

9D/8N

78 Ratings

Mesmerizing Italy and Austria Honeymoon Package

₹ 123,750 ₹ 99,000 per adult

Prm5o4iu1j5mvhxzdm1k5xqb69vg 1590767708 florence it destination

10D/9N

39 Ratings

Rome Florence and Venice - Best Of Italy

₹ 209,334 ₹ 157,000 per adult

Explore All (65)

Attractions In Rome(Starting At Just Inr 499) Explore All (9)

Get onboard for an exceptional audio-guided tour of the Pantheon

48 Ratings

35-Minutes Pantheon Tour with Audio Guide, Rome

€ 21 € 17 per adult

4H

460 Ratings

Colosseum Tickets, Rome

€ 45 € 29 per adult

51 Ratings

Trevi Fountain and Underground Guided Tour, Rome

€ 36 € 25 per child

Welcome to Leonardo Da Vinci Museum in Rome

2H

62 Ratings

Leonardo Da Vinci Museum Tickets

€ 21 € 13 per adult

3H

536 Ratings

Colosseum Tickets, Rome

€ 35 € 25 per adult

2H

25 Ratings

Leonardo Da Vinci Museum Tickets, Rome

€ 14 € 13 per adult

Explore All (9)

01

Originally a Mausoleum

Castel Sant'Angelo was originally built as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian in 135 AD. As a museum, Castel Sant'Angelo displayed Roman artefacts, medieval weapons, coins, pottery, Renaissance art, papal items, ceremonial objects, manuscripts, and personal items from the Vatican highlighting the castle's role as a residence and refuge for the popes.

Over the centuries, Castel Sant'Angelo's fun facts tell us its transformation from a tomb to a fortress and later to a papal residence and prison, showcasing its varied historical roles.

Also Checkout: Places to Visit In Italy

Castel Sant Angelo Tickets, Rome

460 Ratings

2H

Starting from € 26 € 16 per Adult

02

Fortress Evolution

It was fortified to serve as a defensive stronghold, with the addition of thick, defensive walls and a fortified entrance. These upgrades transformed it from a mausoleum into a military support capable of withstanding sieges.

Facts about Castel Sant'Angelo reveal that the fortifications were further enhanced with the addition of towers and a drawbridge. During the Renaissance, the defensive features were modernized, including the construction of bastions and gun placements. This evolution reflects its importance in Rome's military and political history.

You Can Book Italy Tour Packages From Here

03

Angel Vision

The story behind Castel Sant'Angelo's name originates from a vision of the Archangel Michael. In 590 AD, during a severe plague in Rome, Pope Gregory I organized a procession seeking divine intervention.

Legend has it that the Archangel Michael appeared atop the mausoleum, sheathing his sword to signal the end of the plague. This divine vision led to the renaming of the mausoleum to Castel Sant'Angelo, symbolizing protection for the city of Rome and its inhabitants and the end of the plague.

Also Checkout: Historical Places in Italy

04

Vatican Link

Castel Sant'Angelo is linked to the Vatican by the Passetto di Borgo, a secret passageway. This passage allowed popes to escape to the castle during sieges and was crucial for ensuring their safety.

One of the Castel Sant'Angelo facts tells us that it was built in 1277 during Pope Nicholas III’s papacy and was used by Pope Clement VII during the Sack of Rome in 1527. The passage is a fortified walkway about 800 meters long, featuring defensive windows and battlements.

Also Checkout: Places To Visit In Rome

05

Papal Home

Pope Clement VII took refuge during the Sack of Rome in 1527 when his residence in the Vatican was overrun by troops. Pope Paul III used the castle as a secure retreat during political turmoil.

Additionally, facts about Castel Sant'Angelo include that Pope Urban VII also took refuge during the Roman Revolt of 1555. Pope Pius IV used the castle during 16th-century conflicts. The castle's robust defences and the secret Passetto di Borgo passage provided a safe escape route.

Also checkout: Places to Visit In Florence

06

Renaissance Enhancements

Architect Antonio da Sangallo the Younger designed new bastions and reinforced existing walls to improve the castle's defence against artillery. Gian Paolo Oliva added ornate ramparts, defensive towers, and a fortified entrance, reflecting Renaissance military and architectural advancements.

Facts about Castel Sant'Angelo show that the interior was upgraded with luxurious papal apartments and ceremonial rooms, and Renaissance artists contributed frescoes and sculptures. These changes combined practical fortification with artistic refinement, strengthening the castle's role as a tough and elegant stronghold.

Also Check: Unusual Things To Do In Rome

07

Prison Era

During its time as a prison, Castel Sant'Angelo housed several notable political figures. Giordano Bruno, the philosopher known for his unorthodox views, was imprisoned there in 1593 before his execution.

Count Francesco Cenci, a nobleman accused of murder and other crimes, was held and executed in 1599. Additionally, Antonio de Cabezón, a Spanish noble involved in political intrigues, was also imprisoned at the castle. The prison continued to operate until 1901 when it was converted into a museum.

You can also book: Italy Honeymoon Packages

08

Museum Attraction

The museum at Castel Sant'Angelo displays a rich collection of Roman antiquities, Renaissance frescoes, sculptures, medieval weaponry, and papal memorabilia.

According to Castel Sant'Angelo facts, some notable exhibits include original frescoes from Pope Alexander VI's apartments and beautifully preserved Renaissance rooms like the Sala Paolina. Unique features include the "Treasure Room," showcasing coins, jewels, and ancient weaponry, and the ancient prison cells and papal apartments. Visitors can also enjoy the rooftop terrace with the iconic statue of the Archangel Michael.

Also Checkout: Places To Visit In Milan

09

Famous Bridge

The Ponte Sant'Angelo, or Bridge of Angels, built by Emperor Hadrian in 134 AD, leads to Castel Sant'Angelo. The bridge features ten statues of angels, designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini, each holding a symbol of the Passion of Christ, like the crown of thorns, nails, and cross.

The bridge offers views of the Vatican, the Tiber, and Rome's skyline. One of the special Castel Sant'Angelo fun facts is that its original name was the "Ponte Elio," named after Emperor Hadrian (Elio Caesar).

Also Checkout: Places To Visit In Venice

Italy Top Attractions

Places To Visit In Italy

Explore Italy

Vernazza

Vernazza is a picturesque coastal village nestled in the heart of Italy's Cinque Terre region. With its charming, colorful buildings clinging to the cliffs overlooking the Ligurian Sea, Vernazza is a postcard-perfect destination that captures the essence of Mediterranean beauty.This historic fishing village boasts a rich heritage, evident in its medieval architecture, narrow cobblestone streets, and the iconic Doria Castle perched on the hillside. Enhanced by Europe travel packages, Visitors can explore the village's quaint shops, savor fresh seafood at local trattorias, and sample Ligurian wines in cozy cafes.Vernazza also offers access to scenic hiking trails, including the famous Sentiero Azzurro, which connects it to neighboring villages along breathtaking cliffside paths. The azure waters of the harbor invite travelers to swim, sunbathe, or embark on boat trips to explore hidden coves and grottoes.Vernazza's timeless beauty, warm hospitality, and captivating surroundings make it a must-visit destination for those seeking an authentic Italian coastal experience.

More Italy Attractions

Cappelle Medicee, florence Pantheon, italy Grand Canal, italy Lake Como, italy Cattedrale Di Pisa Sardinia, italy Square Of Miracles, florence Capri, italy Sicily, italy Amalfi Coast, italy Cathedral Of Santa Maria Del Fiore, florence Battistero Di San Giovanni, florence 10 Corso Como, italy Uffizi Palace And Gallery, florence Cinque Terre, italy Lace Museum, venice Mirabilandia Amusement Park, italy Archaeological Park of Herculaneum, italy Complesso Monumentale Sant'Anna dei Lombardi, naples Punta Spartivento, italy Convent of San Domenico, italy HZERO Museum, florence Galleria Giorgio Franchetti alla Ca' d'Oro, venice Castello Baradello, italy Teatro Sociale, italy Legro Il Paese Dipinto, italy Basilica of Sant Ubaldo, italy Colosseum, italy I Giardini di Villa Melzi, italy Museo Degli Strumenti Per La Navigazione, italy Labirinto della Masone, italy Chianti Sculpture Park, italy Falesia Second Tower, italy Museo di Palazzo Grimani, venice Museo Fortuny, venice Monte Solaro, italy Museo Nazionale dell'Automobile, turin Ca' Pesaro International Gallery of Modern Art, venice Pied Piper’s House, italy Museo M9 Mestre, venice St Mark's Campanile, italy Burano, california Mater Ecclesiae Abbey, italy Violin Museum Cremona, italy Royal Palace of Caserta, italy Mamertine Prison, rome Basilica of Saint Nicholas, italy Piazza Della Signoria, florence Leaning Tower Of Pisa, italy Piazza dell'Indipendenza, florence Stibbert Museum, florence Giardino delle Rose, florence Opera del Duomo Museum, florence Museum of Ancient Ships, pisa Sinopie Museum, pisa HZERO Museum, florence Selfie Museum Florence Brunelleschi's Dome, florence Brunelleschi dome, florence Piazza dei Miracoli, pisa Camposanto Pisa Campanile di Giotto, florence Ponte Vecchio, florence Piazza Torquato Tasso, florence Piazzale Donatello, florence Salvatore Ferragamo Museum, florence Baptistery of St. John, florence Cathedral of Santa Maria pisa Squares of Miracle, Pisa Porta al Prato, florence Iglesia de Santa Maria della Spina, pisa Siena Cathedral San Marco Museum, florence Palazzo Blu, pisa National Museum of San Matteo, pisa San Piero a Grado, pisa Borgo Stretto, pisa

Italy Travel Guides

7 Vatican Museums Exhibits That Showcase Its Rich History!

7 Vatican Museum Exhibits

Europe In August

Europe in February

Costa Cruises: Book Costa Cruise Packages @ 20% OFF

Costa Cruises: Upto 20% Off on Costa Cruise Booking

10 Castles in Italy

15 Beaches in Italy For A Sun-Kissed Getaway

15 Best Beaches in Italy

25 Historical Places In Italy

Honeymoon In Italy Travel Guide

Italy Reviews

Balagopal Mukhopadhyay Florence Guided City Tour with Accademia & Uffizi Tickets

Excellent

Visiting Florence Uffizi Gallery was a great decision. I enjoyed Tuscan lunch with my guide. He was friendly and had good knowledge of the place. Great experience!

Nanda Gowda Florence Guided City Tour with Accademia & Uffizi Tickets

Excellent

So glad to have booked the Uffizi gallery package. Thrillophilia support team got in touch with me quickly and helped me make the booking. They actually delivered happiness and added a true meaning to my Florence trip!

Drona Jha Hop On Hop Off Florence Bus Tour

Excellent

It was so easy to book with Thrillophilia and I also got a great discount. Realized that Florence hop on hop off is the best way to explore the city. It was such a splendid experience with an audio guide!

Amish Chopra Hop On Hop Off Florence Bus Tour

Excellent

I selected the 24-hour pass as I planned for a short trip to Florence. But I didn't expect that I could explore so much even with this pass. I visited a lot of places.

Dharani Pandey Uffizi Gallery Tickets

Excellent

I and my friends booked the Uffizi gallery tour with Thrillophilia. The guide was friendly and told us many things about the area. It was a great experience!

Minakshi Mukhopadhyay Europe Cruise Tour

Excellent

It was an amazing experience to be here with such warm hospitality by the hosts. The food was okayish but it was different and we liked the uniqueness of the food. A must visit place. Thank you guys

Avani Ahuja Europe Tour Package From India

Excellent

I booked the plan to Europe from Hyderabad, we were two friends traveling as we were working from long we needed a long vacation too. Having much time to spend, we wanted to explore much of Europe. So we got our plan and it was exact copy of something we wanted,as well as the the timings were good for sightseeing and also for looking for the place on our own. It was a nice experience, thanks.

Tara Nayar Florence Accademia Gallery Tour: Skip the Line Ticket

Excellent

I booked the tour with Thrillophilia and got confused about the location and called the customer support team. They helped me and solved my problem very quickly. Keep it up, guys!

Vidur Banerjee Florence Accademia Gallery Tour: Skip the Line Ticket

Superb

I didn't have to wai tin line and entered easily with the voucher at the Accademia Gallery. The guide was friendly and told us many facts about the place. Good experience!