Construction of Castel Sant'Angelo began in 123 AD during the reign of Emperor Hadrian and was originally intended to serve as his tomb. Hadrian's design included a massive cylindrical structure that was intended to be not only a monumental mausoleum, but also a testament to Roman power and prosperity. A large garden and various sculptures were also built around the tomb to emphasise its uniqueness.
After Hadrian's death, the construction was completed by his successors, and it was not until 139 AD that it was opened to the public. It originally took the form of a large, round mausoleum, but its appearance and purpose changed with time.
The transformation into a fortress
During the 5th century, after the fall of the Roman Empire, the tomb was converted into a fortress. In 590, during a plague epidemic in Rome, a statue of an angel was moved into the fortress, giving Castel Sant'Angelo its present name. According to legend, this angel was supposed to reveal the divine miracle that ended the plague epidemic. This event became a symbol of the protection of the town. The bronze statue of the angel is located at the top of the castle.
In later centuries, the fortress served as the residence of the popes, who used it as a refuge in times of danger, such as during riots or sieges of the city. It was also connected to the Vatican by a secret underground tunnel, the so-called Passetto di Borgo, which allowed the popes to escape quickly from the Vatican in case of danger.
The castle today
Today, Castel Sant'Angelo is one of the most visited tourist sites in Rome and its historical value is immeasurable. The castle houses a museum that offers visitors the opportunity to explore the rich history and architecture of the fortress. A stroll along the walls of Castel Sant'Angelo provides spectacular views of the city, including the Tiber River, and iconic landmarks such as the Colosseum, the Vatican and Piazza Venezia.
On the upper floors of the castle there is a terrace with a view that is particularly beautiful at sunset, when Rome takes on a magical atmosphere. The museum exhibition in the fortress includes art collections, historical artifacts, weapons, and reenactments.
The castle can be reached from the centre of Rome by crossing the Tiber River on the Ponte Sant'Angelo bridge. On this bridge there are ten marble statues of angels, which were created in the 17th century according to the designs of Gian Lorenzo Bernini. Each angel holds an instrument of Christ's Passion, such as a cross, a crown of thorns or spikes. These statues symbolise different aspects of Christ's passion and are an important example of Baroque sculpture
Castel Sant'Angelo is not just a historical building; it is a place that tells the story of Rome, its changes and enduring symbols of power, religion and protection. If you're visiting Rome, don't miss this monument - not only for its fascinating history, but also for the breathtaking views of the entire city.
