CASTEL SANT'ANGELO (HOLY ANGEL CASTLE)
A castle rich in history with a charming bar-restaurant and a beautiful view of Rome.
The Château Saint-Ange was first the tomb wanted by Emperor Hadrian for his family in 135 AD. Then in the time of Aurelian, the castle was part of Rome's defensive apparatus and served as a fortress and prison. Julius II had a loggia opened on the Tiber, Alexander VI had the covered road connecting the Vatican to the castle built or restored under fire. A wise precaution that will be very useful to one of his successors, Clement VII, during the sack of 1527! We visit the room of Apollo and its grotesques, the chapel of Leo X, the court of Alexander VI and its fountain, the bathroom of Clement VII. At this level, a round path offers a 360° panorama of Rome. By a staircase, we go up to Paul III's apartment, decorated with frescoes by Perin Del Vaga. See in particular Psyche's room. Some interesting paintings are on display. Nearby, you will find the library and treasure that once contained the secret archives of the Vatican. From there, you can reach the upper terrace by a small staircase, topped by the bronze archangel Saint Michael. While admiring the panorama and view of St. Peter's Basilica, you will also remember the final scene of Tosca shot by Franco Zeffirelli in this place, after Puccini's opera of the same name. Inside the castle, you will find a charming bar-restaurant with a breathtaking view. Especially recommended for a romantic dinner!
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