Castel Sant'Angelo & Ponte Sant'Angelo
50 Lungotevere Castello Roma
Castel Sant’Angelo, once the mausoleum of Emperor Hadrian, later became the fortress of the popes, standing as a symbol of divine protection and papal resilience. In 847 AD, Pope Leo IV fortified the structure, extending its defenses around what is now Vatican City and parts of Trastevere. The fortress played a crucial role during the 1527 Sack of Rome, offering refuge to Pope Clement VII, who remained inside for months while the city fell to invading forces.
According to tradition, St. Michael the Archangel appeared above the castle during a plague-era procession led by Pope St. Gregory the Great, signifying the end of the pandemic. In gratitude, Pope Boniface IV built a church within the fortress in St. Michael’s honor, transforming Castel Sant’Angelo into a place of prayer and intercession for the sick.
Leading to the castle is Ponte Sant’Angelo, Rome’s main pilgrim bridge to the Vatican. Originally known as the Aelian Bridge, it was constructed by Hadrian in the 2nd century AD. Its ten Baroque angels, sculpted under the direction of Gian Lorenzo Bernini, each hold an instrument of Christ’s Passion, guiding pilgrims toward the heart of Christendom.
From imperial tomb to papal refuge, Castel Sant’Angelo remains a testament to faith, history, and divine intervention, where the memory of St. Michael’s apparition continues to inspire devotion.
Prayer
Heavenly Father,
We give thanks for Castel Sant’Angelo, a testament to faith and divine protection. As travelers cross Ponte Sant’Angelo, may their journey lead them closer to Your heart and the love of Christ, symbolized by the angels that guide their path.
We invoke St. Michael the Archangel, who once appeared here, to intercede for us. May his protection continue to shelter those in need, offering solace and strength to all seeking refuge in Your presence.
Bless this place with peace and hope, and may it always inspire devotion and trust in Your unfailing love.
Amen.
Recommended Nearby:
Basilica of San Giovanni in Laterano
As the official cathedral of Rome and the seat of the Pope, San Giovanni in Laterano holds a status comparable to St. Peter’s. Its grand architecture, historical importance, and papal significance make it a key counterpart to the Vatican Basilica.
See Also:
Holy Week - Relics in Rome Walking Tour
Located throughout Vatican City are places that require special permission to visit. In this self-guided itinerary, we will show you the best places to see.
Papal Basilicas Tour
Located throughout Rome, each papal basilica carries a rich story with many pilgrims to Rome making the journey to each one before choosing a favorite. By passing through the Holy Door of any of these basilicas, it is possibe to receive a plenary indulgence during the 2025 Jubilee Year.
Stay Connected:
Sign up and get weekly updates with new locations, itineraries and videos.