Castel Sant'Angelo Tour + Terrace Access
Castel Sant'Angelo: An Icon of the Imperial Era
Built as a mausoleum for the Roman Emperor Hadrian and his family in 139 AD, Castel Sant'Angelo has had a fascinating history over the centuries. It was a military fortress in the Middle Ages and a papal castle during the Renaissance era. Its function as a fortress is reflected in its imposing structure, which includes thick stone walls, defensive towers and a moat.
One of the most distinctive features of Castel Sant'Angelo is the Ponte Sant’Angelo, a pedestrian bridge decorated with angelic statues that connects the castle to the centre of Rome.
Tour Details
Meet your guide in front of the entrance to the Castel Sant'Angelo and set off on a guided tour. You’ll first learn about all the sculptures located on the Ponte Sant’Angelo that crosses the city’s main river, the Tiber.
After learning about the history of the bridge and its statues, we'll step inside the Castel Sant'Angelo. We'll talk about the history of the building and learn more about the famous legend that attributes the appearance of the archangel St. Michael on this very spot during a plague epidemic in the 6th century AD.
Papal Legends
The castle is full of legends and stories, many of them linked to the popes. We'll visit the rooms dedicated to the popes on the upper floors, where we'll find beautiful Renaissance frescoes. Some paintings even belong to the school of Raphael.
The Vatican's Secret Tunnel
You’ll also visit the lower floors, where you’ll learn about the secret tunnel to the Vatican, an underground corridor that connects the Holy See and the Castle. Pope Clement VII escaped through the “Passetto di Borgo” when the city was attacked by Charles V in 1527. This place also inspired several writers and directors, for example, Dan Brown mentions the Castle in his best-seller “Angels and Demons”.
The Terrace at Castel Sant'Angelo
One of the most special moments of this guided tour will be the climb to the top floor, where we'll access the terrace for a breathtaking 360 degree view of Rome and the Vatican City—the perfect place for a selfie!
The tour will come to an end in front of the Castle after 2 to 3 hours in total.
More Information
Duration
2 - 3h.
Language
The activity takes place with a guide that speaks in English.
Included
English–speaking guide
Admission to Castel Sant'Angelo
When to book?
You can book up until 9 hours before the activity as long as there are still places. Book now to guarantee your spot.
Type of voucher
Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.
Accessibility
Most areas are accessible.
Sustainability
All services published on Civitatis are carried out in accordance with our Sustainability Code.
Our providers commit to:
- Provide a safe and satisfying experience.
- Reduce, reuse, recycle.
- Incorporate eco-conscious technologies.
- Uphold fair employment standards.
- Foster the growth of local communities.
- Preserve the integrity of local culture.
- Safeguard both cultural and environmental heritage.
- Ensure ethical treatment of animals.
- Operate with honesty and transparency.
- Encourage sustainable behaviors among customers and staff.
This particular activity contributes as follows:
- No printing of documentation required.
Pets
Not permitted.
Frequently asked questions
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Q - Does the tour visit the prisons?
A - No, for safety reasons.
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Q - Does the tour visit the Pasetto?
A - No.
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Q - Is the terrace accessible?
A - Unfortunately, going up to the terrace of the Castle isn't recommended for people with reduced mobility due to the narrow stairs.
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Q - Which local supplier will be providing the tour?
A - Depending on the date, time, or language selected, this tour may be offered by different local suppliers: Rome Bites Tours Corporate name: Filippo Calabria Registered Office: Via Livio Pentimalli 46, Rome, Italy Tax Identification Number (VAT ID): IT14355671000 Contact information Email: romebitestour@gmail.com Phone: +39 3492210982 This supplier is commited to providing services in accordance with applicable European Union laws. Doooing Corporate name: Doooing s.r.l. Registered Office: Via Bomarzo, 34, Rome, Italy Tax Identification Number (VAT ID): 14159001008 Contact information Email: p.focolari@doooing.it Phone: +39 389 9472973 This supplier is commited to providing services in accordance with applicable European Union laws.
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Q - Why do this activity with Civitatis?
A - At Civitatis we guarantee the best quality and prices, click here if you want to know how we select our activities.
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Q - How to book?
A - To reserve the activity, choose the date and complete the form on this page. You will receive your confirmation immediately.
If you have any other questions please contact us.
Free cancellation
Castel Sant Angelo
