Castel Sant'Angelo history dates back to the 2nd century AD when Emperor Hadrian commissioned its construction as a mausoleum for himself and his family. The mausoleum was completed in 139 AD, and it housed the remains of the emperor, his wife, and other members of the imperial family. The mausoleum was built in a circular shape with a diameter of 64 meters and a height of 21 meters. The structure was adorned with marble and bronze decorations, including statues and reliefs. The top of the mausoleum was crowned with a statue of Hadrian driving a chariot. During the Middle Ages, the mausoleum was used as a fortress to defend the city from invading barbarians. Later, it became a papal residence, and some of the original decorations were removed or modified. Today, visitors can still see some of the original decorations and learn about the mausoleum's history through the exhibits in the museum.

Read More: View From Castel Sant Angelo

In the 5th century, the mausoleum was converted into a fortress by the Visigoths, who used it as a stronghold during their siege of Rome. In the 14th century, Pope Nicholas III turned the fortress into a castle, adding defensive walls and a moat. The castle served as a refuge for popes during times of danger, and it played a significant role in the city's defense during the Sack of Rome in 1527. The castle's strategic position on the banks of the Tiber river made it an ideal location for controlling access to the city. During the Renaissance, the castle was transformed into a sumptuous papal residence, with luxurious apartments, frescoes, and gardens. In the 19th century, the castle was turned into a museum, showcasing the history of Rome and its rulers.

Suggested Read: Best Places To Visit Near Castel Sant Angelo

Castel Sant'Angelo played a significant role in the history of Rome as a prison. It was used as a prison during the Papal States, and many high-profile prisoners were held there, including the philosopher Giordano Bruno. Bruno was imprisoned in Castel Sant'Angelo for seven years, from 1593 to 1600, on charges of heresy. He was interrogated and tortured while held there and ultimately sentenced to death by burning at the stake. Other notable prisoners held in Castel Sant'Angelo include the pirate Redbeard and the artist Benvenuto Cellini. Today, visitors can explore the prison cells in the castle and learn about the prisoners held there and the conditions they endured.

In the 19th century, Castel Sant'Angelo was turned into a museum, and it has remained so ever since. The museum houses an impressive collection of artwork, artifacts, and historical objects that tell the story of Rome's rich history. The museum's collections include paintings, sculptures, furniture, and weaponry, as well as artifacts from the mausoleum and the castle's past as a prison. Visitors can see original decorations from the mausoleum, such as statues and reliefs, as well as papal apartments from the Renaissance. One of the museum's most famous exhibits is the statue of the Archangel Michael, which stands atop the castle and is visible from many parts of Rome.

Must Checkout: Planning Your Visit To Castel Sant Angelo