Visit to Castel Sant’angelo in Rome: Times, Prices And Advice

As you wander through the Eternal City, you’ll come across countless landmarks that evoke a sense of history and grandeur. Among these is Castel Sant’Angelo, a fortress with an intriguing past that will transport you back in time. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Castel Sant’Angelo, exploring its fascinating history, must-see attractions, and practical information to help you plan your visit.

Hours and Prices: Getting the Best Out of Your Visit

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of Castel Sant’Angelo, let’s cover the basics. The fortress is open from 09:00 to 19:30 daily, except for January 1st, May 1st, and December 25th. As for ticket prices, a standard full ticket costs €12.00, while EU young adults between 18-25 years old can enjoy a reduced rate of €2.00.

It’s worth noting that certain exhibitions and events might affect pricing, so it’s always a good idea to check the official website for updates.

Valuing Your Time: The Rome Pass

If you’re planning on visiting other attractions during your stay in Rome, consider investing in the Roma Pass. This pass grants free admission to other popular sites, discounts on special offers, and unlimited public transportation. The pass costs approximately €50.00, making it a worthwhile investment for those who plan to explore multiple sights.

A Day at Castel Sant’Angelo: What to See and How to Visit

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s dive into what makes Castel Sant’Angello so special. The fortress proposes a discovery path of the seven levels, allowing visitors to relive Rome’s history. Be prepared for breathtaking panoramic views, beautiful frescoed rooms, and other interesting historical elements.

Some highlights include:

• The Prison Historical areas: Underground spaces probably built by Alessandro VI Borgia
• The Olearies areas: Storage facilities for food
• The courtyard of Leo X: “The Oven”, where hot water was heated to warm up Clemente VII’s bath
• The bath of Clemente VII: An ancient room with affrescos showing sphinxes, dolphins, and fantastical marine creatures
• The Passetto of Borgo: A fortified passage about 800 meters long connecting the castle to the Vatican Palaces

10 Works to See at Castel Sant’Angelo

As you explore the fortress, keep an eye out for these 10 works of art:

1. Bust of Emperor Adriano
2. Campana della Misericordia (Bell of Mercy)
3. Statua di San Michele Arcangelo in the Terrazza
4. Statue of Saint Michael Arcangelo in the Cortile degli Angeli
5. Ritratto di Prospero Farinacci by Giuseppe Cesari
6. Festino degli Dei – Copy from Giovanni Bellini
7. Il Cardinale Gozzadini riceve Giacomo III Stuart
8. Giovane donna con unicorno (Young Woman with a Unicorn)
9. Compianto su Cristo morto (Deposition of Christ)
10. Madonna con Bambino e Santi (Madonna with Child and Saints)

Where it’s Located and How to Get There

Castel Sant’Angelo is situated on the right bank of the Tiber River, a few steps from the Vatican. Here are some practical tips for getting there:

• On foot: Approximately 700 meters from Piazza Navona (10 minutes) and less than 800 meters from Piazza San Pietro (12 minutes)
• By Metro: Line A, stops Lepanto or Ottaviano (about 15 minutes on foot)
• Bus lines: 62, 23, 271, 982, 280, 40, 34, 49, 87, 926, 990

Useful Tips for Visiting the Attraction

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit, keep these tips in mind:

• Be prepared to wait in line for your ticket and entrance
• Consider our advice or postpone your visit to less crowded days (weekends can be very busy)
• Arrive at least 30 minutes before opening time and reserve your online ticket if you want to save time

Brief Historical Notes, Curiosities, and Practical Information: What You Need to Know

Castel Sant’Angelo is undoubtedly one of the most fascinating attractions that Rome has to offer. With a history dating back to 125-139 AD, this fortress was initially thought as a mausoleum for Emperor Adriano, but later became a full-fledged castle and was included in the Aurelian Walls by the Western Roman Emperor Honorius.

The connection with the Church dates back to 1367, when the keys of the fortress were handed over to Pope Urban V. Several historical events and curiosities are linked to the famous “Passetto”, or path connecting the castle to the Vatican.

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A Brief History of Castel Sant’Angelo

Castel Sant’Angelo was built in the 2nd century AD as a mausoleum for Emperor Adriano, who died in 138 AD. The fortress was constructed on the site of an ancient temple dedicated to Diana, a goddess revered by the Romans.

In the 4th century AD, the fortress was converted into a Christian church by Pope Clement I, and later became a popular pilgrimage site during the Middle Ages. The fortress played a significant role in Rome’s history, serving as a royal residence, military stronghold, and even a prison.

Curiosities and Legends

Castel Sant’Angelo is steeped in legends and curiosities that add to its mystique. One of the most famous stories surrounding the fortress is the legend of Pope Clement XII, who allegedly ordered his executioners to burn any remains inside the fortress to destroy any potential Catholic relics.

Another fascinating fact about Castel Sant’Angelo is that it was used as a tomb for the Emperor Constantine I in the 4th century AD. The Emperor’s sarcophagus was placed on the highest level of the fortress, but unfortunately, its current location remains unknown.

Practical Information and Tips

Before your visit to Castel Sant’Angelo, here are some practical tips and information to keep in mind:

• Accessibility: The fortress is partially wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators connecting all levels.
• Food and Drink: There’s a café on site offering light refreshments, but you can also bring your own food and drinks.
• Photography: Photography is allowed for personal use, but tripods and commercial photography require permission from the authorities.
• Dress Code: Dress modestly and avoid revealing clothing when visiting the fortress.

Additional Tips and Recommendations

Here are some additional tips and recommendations to enhance your visit to Castel Sant’Angelo:

• Guided Tours: Consider booking a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the history and significance of the fortress.
• Special Events: Check the official website for special events, exhibitions, or concerts that might interest you.
• Combining Attractions: Combine your visit to Castel Sant’Angelo with other nearby attractions, such as the Vatican Museums or St. Peter’s Basilica.

Conclusion: Uncovering the Secrets of Castel Sant’Angelo

As we conclude our journey through Castel Sant’Angelo, remember that this ancient fortress has a wealth of secrets waiting to be uncovered. From its breathtaking panoramic views to its fascinating history and art collections, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Before you go, here are some frequently asked questions about Castel Sant’Angelo:

• What time is the last entry?: The last entry to the fortress is 30 minutes before closing time.
• Can I take food into the fortress?: Yes, but please refrain from eating in public areas.
• Is photography allowed?: Photography is allowed for personal use, but commercial photography requires permission.

We hope this information has been helpful in planning your visit to Castel Sant’Angelo. Buon viaggio!