Castel San Angelo and the Story of Rome

Originally constructed  in the 2nd Century by Enperor Hadrian as a tomb for himself and his family, this fortress structure on the banks of the Tiber has served many purposes ever since.

The remains of other Emperors including Caracalla were also entombed here. A  bridge , the Pont St Angelo, built at the time, connected the Castel with the western side of the ancient city. Later embellished with great statues by artists such as Bernini, it remains the most ornate and attractive of more than a dozen bridges over the River Tiber.

For centuries the structure was known as Hadrians Mole. Sacked and partially destroyed by the Goths in the 5th century,  the Mole would later became a castle. Castel San Angelo would then refuge for Popes during periods of civil unrest. The fort was connected to the nearby Vatican by a series of underground tunnels.The elaborately frescoes quarters of Popes can be viewed today.

The castle later served as a military barracks, conventional fortress , and prison.

Today it houses Roman relics from throughout the ages and several museums and is one of the city’s popular tourist attractions.

Destination – Italy