The huge circular hulk of Castel St. Angelo near the edge of the Vatican City was commissioned and built by Hadrian as his own mausoleum. It was renamed during the 6th century from Pope Gregory and converted to a fortress. Vatican City was then connected through a passageway to the Castle (called “Il Passetto” located in Prati district and in particular in Borgo Pio Area see apartments in Prati or Borgo Pio if you are interested in staying in this location).

The Castle was indeed a refuge for the Pope in times of siege or invasion. We really suggest to visit it inside where a large spiral (originally thought to allow the passage of horses) leads up into the centre of Mausoleum and than to the top where a small palace was built as magnificent house for the papal residents.

The atmosphere is a unique mix of decorations and medieval austerity with some rooms holding swords, armours, guns while others finely decorated (the bathroom of Clement VII at 2nd floor can not e missed). Finally we suggest a break at the bar upstairs with one of the best views of Rome and very good coffee.

During the summer the Castle is often open also in the night with concerts, Theatre . While in the area in front of the castle cinema d’ estate takes place and along the river Tevere just below the Castle there are many bars and restaurants open for the "Estate Romana" period .