Castel Sant’Angelo Architecture

The lower part of Castel Sant'Angelo is a remarkable example of ancient Roman engineering and design. The massive cylindrical structure is made of concrete and brick, with walls over 10 feet thick. It was originally built as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian and his family in AD 135. The cylindrical shape is a tribute to ancient Roman engineering and design, which was common in many structures of the time. The lower part of the castle has also served as a fortress and a prison over the centuries, adding to its rich and diverse history. It remains a significant landmark in Rome today and a testament to the ingenuity and skill of ancient Roman architects.

Must Checkout: Passetto di Borgo

The upper part of Castel Sant'Angelo is a stunning example of Baroque style Architecture. It features a square-shaped building adorned with statues and other decorative elements. The statues depict angels, emperors, and other notable figures, reflecting the castle's different uses over time. The upper part was added in the 17th century by Pope Urban VIII, who commissioned Gian Lorenzo Bernini to redesign the castle's interior and exterior. Bernini's designs gave the upper part its unique Baroque style, characterized by its grandeur, opulence, and attention to detail. The upper part of Castel Sant'Angelo is a testament to the castle's evolution and the enduring influence of Baroque architecture on Italian art and culture.

Read More: Castel Sant Angelo Skip The Line

The architecture of the Bridge of Castel Sant'Angelo is a testament to ancient Roman engineering and design. The bridge was built by Emperor Hadrian in AD 134 as a means to connect the city of Rome to his mausoleum, which later became Castel Sant'Angelo. The bridge was originally called Pons Aelius, named after Hadrian's family name. It features five arches that span over the Tiber River and is adorned with marble and stone statues of angels, designed by Bernini in the 17th century. The bridge has undergone several renovations and restorations over the centuries, but its ancient Roman architecture and design have remained intact, making it a popular tourist attraction and a symbol of Rome's rich history and culture.

The interior architecture of Castel Sant'Angelo is a stunning blend of ancient Roman and Baroque styles. Originally built as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian and his family, the interior has undergone several transformations over the centuries. In the 14th century, it was converted into a fortress, and later a papal residence in the 16th century. The Baroque style was added in the 17th century by Pope Urban VIII, who commissioned Gian Lorenzo Bernini to redesign the castle's interior. The interior features grand halls, decorated with frescoes, marble sculptures, and other ornate elements. The architecture reflects the castle's diverse history and the evolution of Italian art and culture over the centuries.

Suggested Read: National Museum Castel Sant'Angelo

The rooftop terrace of Castel Sant'Angelo is a magnificent example of ancient Roman engineering and design. The terrace offers stunning panoramic views of the city of Rome and the Tiber River. The rooftop terrace was originally designed as a defensive feature of the castle, allowing soldiers to survey the surrounding area and fend off potential attacks. Today, it serves as a popular tourist destination and a prime location for outdoor events and concerts. The terrace is adorned with sculptures, decorative elements, and intricate masonry work, adding to its architectural beauty. The rooftop terrace is a must-see for visitors to Castel Sant'Angelo, offering a glimpse into ancient Roman architecture and design.

Do Checkout: Places To Visit Near Castel Sant'Angelo