Explore Rome
Castel Sant'Angelo National Museum
Type: Great Views, Historic Sites, History Museums, Museums, Sightseeing
10Best Says
With its dominant presence looming over the Tiber River, it's hard not to marvel at the immense landmark, Castel Sant'Angelo. The castle was originally built to serve as a mausoleum for Emperor... Read More
With its dominant presence looming over the Tiber River, it's hard not to marvel at the immense landmark, Castel Sant'Angelo. The castle was originally built to serve as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian but in the 6th century, was turned into a papal fortress. Thanks to secret passage ways (as featured in the blockbuster hit Angels and Demons), popes were able to escape from danger to various palaces within the Vatican. Today, the castle has a museum where visitors can keep themselves entertained by the trap doors, ditches, draw bridges, dungeons, weapons and papal apartments. The castle also has a lovely terrace offering spectacular views of the Roman city skyline. BUS: 80, 87, 280, 492. METRO: Lepanto
Advertisement
Hours:
- Tue-Sun 9am-7pm
Admissions:
- Adult 5; Senior (65+) Free; Child (0-17) Free; Ticket Concessions Available
EXPERT TIPS BY:
Maria Pasquale
Rome Local Expert
- Romantic Things to Do, Museums, Family-Friendly Museums: "During the summer, the city of Rome often organizes outdoor events and concerts on the terrace of the castle."
- Best for Romantic Things to Do Because: There is nothing more beautiful than a twilight stroll along the Ponte Sant'Angelo - Rome's Bridge of Angels.
- Best for Museums Because: Not just any museum sits in an old castle and this one is extra special with a terrace that overlooks the city.
- Best for Family-Friendly Museums Because: This castle was once the tallest building in Rome and used as a fortress and castle for the Popes. Not just any museum sits in an old castle and this one is special with a terrace that overlooks the city.
