Visit a museum initially built as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian
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Combine Castel Sant'Angelo with other Rome favorites. Some things are better together.
Castel Sant'Angelo was originally built as a tomb for the ashes of Emperor Hadrian
It's unique cylindrical structure makes it a stand-out building from other ancient Roman ruins
When it was converted into a military fortress in 402 AD, much of its original decor was lost or destroyed
Castel Sant'Angelo was made into a protective castle by several popes
Built over the river Tiber, Castel Sant'Angelo now stands guard near the entrance of Vatican City (although it is still managed by Rome)
With 1.2 million annual visitors (and counting), acquiring your Castel Sant'Angelo tickets in advance is always a good idea, especially during Rome's high season.
General entrance to Castel Sant'Angelo tickets
Join a guided tour
Spending some time in Rome and Vatican City? Consider a City Pass
Castel Sant'Angelo is closed on Mondays, as well as January 1, May 1, and December 25
Children aged 18 and younger can enter for free. Check the Castel Sant'Angelo website to see if you qualify for discounted admission
This venue has limited wheelchair access
Admission is free on the first Sunday of every month
Budget at least an hour for a thorough visit of Castel Sant'Angelo
There's lots in store when you enter Rome's Castel Sant'Angelo. This multipurpose structure has stood on the Tiber River for generations and its history is recorded in 6 unique floors:
Since its construction in the 2nd century, Castel Sant'Angelo has served as the ultimate multipurpose structure – from mausoleum to prison, and papal apartments to modern museum.
In addition to its many purposes over the years, Castel Sant'Angelo continues to stand constant guard over the Bridge of Angels, which connects the border of Rome to the holy Vatican City.
With so many sites to visit in Rome, it's easy to get carried away by the culture and history of the ancient world. Make sure you add Castel Sant'Angelo to your list and budget 2-3 hours to explore the castle.
If you are seeing other sites in Rome, it's helpful to know that Castel Sant'Angelo is a 35-minute walk (2.9 km or 1.8 mi) from the Colosseum, and a 6-minute walk (1.3 km or 0.8 mi) from Vatican City.
The towering cylinder of Castel Sant'Angelo, and its statue of Archangel Michael, is an instantly recognizable silhouette on the banks of the Tiber.
Initially built as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian and his family, its purpose has changed many times over the years, from a fortress, a residence, a prison, and now a museum.
