National Museum of Castel Sant’Angelo

From great imperial tomb to stronghold of the Popes: an exciting tour through history culminating with the arrival at the panoramic terrace overlooking the Tiber River.

The history of this incredible monument begins with Emperor Hadrian who ordered its construction as a sepulchre; so it remained until, about a century and a half later, it was incorporated into the Aurelian Walls.

Thanks to its mighty structure and its position on the river, it was contended by the most powerful Roman noble families before being ceded to Pope Urban V, in the second half of the 14th century, to facilitate the end of the Avignon exile.

Through continuous transformations over the centuries, it took the form of a castle and fortified residence of the popes during times of conflict, thanks also to the 'Passetto', a protected passageway that still connects the Apostolic Palace in the Vatican with Castel Sant'Angelo.

Today, it is an important museum offering a number of different routes to visitors and a packed calendar of activities and events for adults and children alike.