Castel Sant’Angelo

Built by Emperor Hadrian in 139 as his final resting place, his mausoleum has served over time as part of the Aurelian Wall, citadel, prison and in emergencies as a refuge for the popes.

Today the Hadrian’s Mausoleum is named after the Archangel Michael, who appeared above the castle in 590 and announced the end of the plague.

In 136, Hadrian had the Angel Bridge built to provide access to his final resting place. Today the entrance is guarded by the apostle lords Peter and Paul. 10 angels with Passion relics decorate the bridge. They were commissioned by Pope Clemens IX.

The 3 middle arcades are still in their original state.