Castel Sant'Angelo & St. Peter's Square
St. Peter's Square (Piazza San Pietro)
Bernini's St. Peter's Square (1656–1667) is one of the greatest masterpieces of urban planning: Two semicircular colonnades with 284 columns and 140 statues of saints embrace the oval square like two arms welcoming the faithful. In the center: an Egyptian obelisk (from the 1st century BC, 25 meters high), brought to Rome by Caligula. During papal audiences (Wednesdays, 10 a.m.) and the Angelus prayer (Sundays, 12 p.m.), the 300,000 m² fill with believers and the curious. Free of charge.
Castel Sant'Angelo
The Castel Sant'Angelo (139 AD) is one of Rome's most fascinating buildings — built as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian, converted into a fortress, papal prison, escape castle, and now a museum. The Passetto di Borgo, a secret passage on the wall, connected the castle with the Vatican — popes fled through here from attackers (most recently Clement VII during the Sack of Rome in 1527).
- Terrace: The rooftop terrace offers one of the most beautiful views over Rome — over the Tiber, St. Peter's Basilica, and the entire city. Perfect at sunset.
- Ponte Sant'Angelo: The bridge in front of the castle, adorned with ten Bernini angels (1669), is one of the most photogenic spots in Rome.
Entry: 15€. Opening hours: Daily 9–7:30 p.m. Less visited than the Colosseum and Vatican — a hidden gem.
