Tour to Castel Sant’ Angelo

Castel S. Angelo or Castle of the Holy Angel is the circular building with an angel on the top which signifies the true signature of the History of Rome.  Initially, it was a Roman tomb, then a papal...

Castel S. Angelo or Castle of the Holy Angel is the circular building with an angel on the top which signifies the true signature of the History of Rome. 

Initially, it was a Roman tomb, then a papal residence, fortress, prison, and execution ground, and currently a museum. 

From the roof of the Castel, It offers one of the most amazing views of the city.

Overlooking the Vatican field, with cylindrical drum and covered by the bronze sculpture of Hadrian on a chariot, this monumental tomb was designed and built by the emperor Hadrian himself.

Best time to visit Castel Sant’ Angelo

The best time to go Castel Sant’ Angelo is in the evening, no crowds will be left, and the view is amazing, especially at the sunset hour. This is one of the best spots to take photographs of the city, so make a plan to arrive about 1 or 2 hours before the sunset and catch the sunset on the terrace bar, looking at city and St.Peter’s dome.

Also, read about Vatican Museum Tickets

How to reach Castel Sant’ Angelo?

You can reach here via public transport, The Ottaviano metro station on Line A is about a five-minute walk away.

A short walk from St. Peter's Square brings you to Castel Sant’ Angelo. It is located adjacent to Lungotevere Castello on the banks of the Tiber River.

 Castel Sant’ Angelo Timings

9:00 am to 7:30 pm from Tuesday to Sunday. 

Opening hours are extended till 10:00 PM only on Friday’s. 

It is closed on all Monday’s, Christmas and New Year’s Day.

Access and Tickets

Entrance is free on the first Sunday of every month but you have to purchase a ticket to enter in Castel Sant’ Angelo on rest of the days. 

Tickets

Booking tickets in advance is recommended especially during season time. You can book tickets from the ticket office or simply from online websites.

Three types of tickets are available

Regular or Full Tickets: For Non-European citizens above 18 and European Citizens above 25 years of age.

Reduced or Half Tickets: Available for citizens of the European Union between 18 and 25 years of age and public school teachers

Free tickets: Available for citizens of European Union under 18 and for Italian Public Institute Teachers.

Guided Tours

Booking Tour Guide is the best option to explore the deep history of this beautiful monument. 

Some Facts about Castel Sant’ Angelo

It was once the tallest building in Rome when it was constructed.

It was designed and built by the Roman Emperor Hadrian as a mausoleum for himself and his family.

This monument was also used for the protection of Popes. In the 14th century, popes decided to convert the structure into a castle, to act as protection for them. 

Pope Nicholas III connected the castle to St. Peter’s Basilica by way of a corridor known as Passetto di Borgo

When Rome was in the mouth of death due to deadly disease named plague, Saint Michael appears on the top of mausoleum sheathing his sword as a sign of the end of the plague of 590, after that monument was named to Castel Sant’ Angelo.