1. Where is Castel Sant’Angelo located?

Castel Sant’Angelo is located at Lungotevere Castello 50, Rome, right along the Tiber River and just a short walk from St. Peter’s Square and the Vatican. Its central position makes it easy to reach from many major sites in the historic center.

2. What are Castel Sant’Angelo’s opening hours?

The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday, from 9:00 AM to 7:30 PM, with last admission at 6:30 PM.

It is closed on Mondays, as well as January 1st, May 1st, and December 25th.

Entrance is free on the first Sunday of each month.

During summer, the castle often offers special evening openings, perfect for enjoying panoramic sunset views.

3. Why is Castel Sant’Angelo famous?

Castel Sant’Angelo is renowned for its 2,000-year history and remarkable transformations. Originally built as Emperor Hadrian’s mausoleum (123–139 AD), it later served as a military fortress, a papal residence and refuge connected to the Vatican via the Passetto di Borgo, and a historical prison that held figures such as Giordano Bruno.

Today it is a national museum featuring frescoed rooms, collections of arms, and one of Rome’s most beautiful panoramic terraces.

Its name comes from the legend of the Archangel Michael, who is said to have appeared above the castle in 590 AD as a sign of the end of a plague.

4. What can I see inside Castel Sant’Angelo?

Visitors can explore:

Frescoed halls and papal apartments

Collections of arms and armor

The historic prisons

The Passetto di Borgo

A panoramic terrace overlooking St. Peter’s Dome and the Roman skyline

5. How can I get to Castel Sant’Angelo?

You can reach the castle:

On foot from Piazza Navona or St. Peter’s Basilica

By Metro: Ottaviano or Lepanto stations (Line A)

By Bus: 23, 40, 62, 64

6. What is the best time to visit?

The ideal times to visit are early in the morning or at sunset, when the castle is quieter and the views are at their most impressive. Weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends.