Inside Castel Sant'Angelo

The courtyard and the bridge are an important part of Castel Sant'Angelo. The bridge was built in the 14th century and leads to the main entrance of the castle. The courtyard is surrounded by impressive walls, towers, and sculptures. Visitors can also see Castel Sant'angelo interior and the famous angel statue, which sits at the top of the castle.

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The dungeons are located in the lower levels of Castel Sant'Angelo and were once used to hold prisoners. Inside Castel Sant'Angelo, visitors can see the dark and eerie dungeons and imagine the harsh conditions prisoners had to endure. The dungeons also have displays of weapons, armor, and instruments of torture.

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The Terrace inside Castel Sant'Angelo offers breathtaking panoramic views of Rome, making it a highlight for visitors. Originally a strategic defense platform, it evolved into a scenic spot adorned with statues and cannons. From here, one can admire the Tiber River and iconic Roman landmarks like St. Peter's Basilica. The Terrace at Castel Sant Angelo reflects both its military past and its transformation into a picturesque viewpoint.

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Inside Castel Sant'Angelo, there is a museum that displays various artworks, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. Visitors can learn about the history of Castel Sant'Angelo and its significance in Rome's history. The museum has a vast collection of artifacts, including ancient Roman pottery, weapons, and armor.

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Pope Boniface IX's passage inside Castel Sant'Angelo was significant, as the fortress served as a refuge for him during difficult times. The castle originally was Emperor Hadrian's mausoleum and was later transformed into a papal stronghold adding to its strategic importance. Boniface IX's occupancy highlights its dual role as a place of defence and a symbol of papal authority.

The military exhibits at Castel Sant Angelo inside showcase a fascinating array of weaponry and armor, reflecting its strategic importance through centuries. You can explore medieval and Renaissance armaments, including swords, crossbows, and cannons. The exhibits also feature defensive structures and fortifications, providing insight into the castle's role as a formidable fortress.

The Alexander VII Walkway inside Castel Sant'Angelo is a historic passageway that connects the castle to St. Peter's Basilica. Named after Pope Alexander VII, it served as a discreet route for popes to escape during times of danger. The walkway, lined with beautiful frescoes depicting scenes from papal history, offers visitors a glimpse into the strategic and artistic significance of the castle throughout history.

The Courtyard of the Angel inside Castel Sant'Angelo offers a serene escape with its Renaissance architecture and iconic statue of the Archangel Michael. This area served various functions over the centuries, from a papal residence to a fortress. Its strategic location provided defense during times of conflict and housed treasure vaults. Today, visitors admire its historical significance and panoramic views of Rome.

The Papal Apartments inside Castel Sant'Angelo offer a glimpse into the luxurious chambers used by Renaissance popes. Located atop the ancient Roman mausoleum of Emperor Hadrian, these apartments feature ornate decorations, frescoes, and historical artefacts. You can explore rooms such as the Sala Paolina, known for its magnificent Renaissance artworks and historical significance in papal history.

The library inside Castel Sant'Angelo houses a collection of historical manuscripts, reflecting its role as a papal fortress and residence. It served as a strategic stronghold and a place of refuge during times of conflict. The library's archives contain valuable documents that illuminate the castle's rich history, from its origins as Emperor Hadrian's mausoleum to its transformation into a Renaissance-era papal residence and military fortress.

The Passetto di Borgo is a hidden elevated passageway linking Castel Sant'Angelo to the Vatican. Constructed in 1277, this 800-metre corridor provided a secure escape route for popes in times of danger. Its strategic importance was demonstrated during the sack of Rome in 1527 when Pope Clement VII used it to flee to safety. The Passetto remains a fascinating symbol of mediaeval papal security and ingenuity.

The Castel Sant'Angelo inside has a fantastic Spiral Staircase with a remarkable architectural feature. It ascends 12 metres with a helical design that allows smooth access between different levels of the castle. Built within the Mausoleum of Hadrian, it combines practicality with aesthetic appeal, featuring stone and brick construction. This spiral ramp, originating from the Atrium, showcases ancient Roman engineering prowess and remains a focal point for visitors exploring the castle's interior.

The Grand Loggia inside Castel Sant'Angelo served as the grand entrance to the Papal apartments, featuring a magnificent ceiling adorned with intricate decorations. This monumental room, completed in 1543 during the Renaissance, showcases five arches supported by pilasters, offering views of the Vatican and St. Peter's Basilica. It remains a testament to Renaissance architecture and papal opulence, providing visitors with a glimpse into the historical grandeur of Rome's iconic fortress.

The Paolina Rooms inside Castel Sant Angelo, commissioned by Pope Paul III Farnese, feature the Sala Paolina as its grand centrepiece. This expansive hall is adorned with vibrant frescoes depicting scenes from Alexander the Great's life, reflecting Renaissance opulence and artistic skill. It served as a ceremonial space in the papal apartments, showcasing the prestige and influence of the papacy during the Renaissance.