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Castel Sant'Angelo - Mausoleum of Hadrian

The Castel Sant'Angelo was built in 123 AD as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian and his family. From 403 onwards it lost its original function and was used by the popes as a fortress, prison and castle, whereas since 1906 it is used as a museum.

Visitors can see the cells in which a number of historical figures were incarcerated, different rooms that functioned as a Papal residence, decorated with perfectly preserved frescoes from the Renaissance period, as well as the extensive collection of weapons.

On the upper floor there is a large terrace where you have a beautiful view on Rome 

The castle/prison was used by Puccini for his opera 'Tosca', as the setting for the third act, when the heroine leaps to her death from the Castel's ramparts.

For more detailed informations, see website

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Castel Sant'Angelo - Mausoleum of Hadrian

Lungotevere Castello, 50
00193 Roma RM
Italy