if you're looking for a top-notch historical spot in Rome, look no further than Castello Sant'Angelo, also known as the Hadrian's Mausoleum. This towering cylindrical fortress is located on the banks of the Tiber River and it's definitely a must-see. Built in the 2nd century AD as a mausoleum for the Roman Emperor Hadrian and his family, it's been a castle, a fortress, a prison, and even a papal residence. So you can imagine the history in this joint.
Now, when's the best time to visit? Spring and fall are the perfect seasons, weather-wise, but honestly, any time is a good time to visit. You'll get different perspectives depending on the season, but no matter when you go, you'll be able to catch the beautiful views of Rome and the Tiber River from the terrace.
But honestly, the best time to visit is any time you're in Rome. You won't regret it.
Interesting things to know about Castel Sant'Angelo
- Fun fact: The castle is said to have been built on the site of a vision of the Archangel Michael. According to legend, the angel appeared to Pope Gregory the Great in the 6th century, sheathing his sword to signal the end of a plague. This is why the castle is named "Castello Sant'Angelo" or "Castle of the Holy Angel."
- Curiosity: The castle was originally built as a mausoleum for the Roman Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century AD. Hadrian's ashes, along with those of his family and successors, were placed inside the structure. Later on, it was used as a fortress and castle by the Popes, and it was also used as a prison, mostly for noble prisoners and political enemies.
- Interesting fact: The castle has a secret corridor, the Passetto di Borgo, which connects the castle to the Vatican Palace. The Pope could use it to flee the Vatican in case of emergency. It also served as a route for the Pope to reach the castle for leisure or to visit prisoners. The secret passage is over 800 meters long.
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Fontana dei Fiumi
You want to see something that's equal parts stunning and historical? Look no further than Fontana dei Fiumi, or the "Fountain of the Rivers" in English. This fountain is located in the Piazza Navona in Rome, and it's a real jaw-dropper. It was built in the late 16th century by the famous artist Gianlorenzo Bernini and it's considered one of the masterpieces of his early career. The fountain depicts the four major rivers of the four continents known at the time: the Danube, Ganges, Nile and Rio de la Plata. It's a real beauty to see. The best time to see the fountain would be during the day, when the sun is shining and the water is sparkling. The square it's located in, Piazza Navona, is also worth a visit during the day, as it's surrounded by charming cafes, gelaterias and souvenir shops. You can also visit the fountain at night, when the square and the fountain are lit up, providing a romantic and very beautiful atmosphere. But I would recommend visiting it during the day if you can, as the details and the sculptures are more visible during the daylight. No matter when you go, Fontana dei Fiumi is a must-see for any history buff or anyone who appreciates stunning architecture and art.Campo dei Fiori
You wanna visit a spot in Rome that's lively as hell? Campo dei Fiori is the place. This square is located in the historic center of Rome and it's known for its lively atmosphere, both during the day and night. It's surrounded by bars, restaurants and shops, making it the perfect place to grab a drink or a bite to eat while taking in the sights and sounds of the city. During the day, the square is bustling with activity as vendors set up their stands to sell fresh produce and flowers, hence the name "Campo dei Fiori" which means "Field of Flowers" in Italian. It's a great place to grab some fresh fruit or veggies to take back to your place or to have a quick bite. But, at night, the square transforms into a lively party spot with plenty of bars and clubs to choose from. It's a great spot for nightlife, but the square can get crowded, so be prepared for a lively atmosphere. Overall, the best time to visit Campo dei Fiori is during the day for the lively market atmosphere or at night for the vibrant nightlife, but be prepared for a lot of people, so be ready to enjoy it.Fontana di Trevi
The Fontana di Trevi (Trevi Fountain) is a famous fountain located in Rome, Italy. It is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city and a popular tourist destination. The fountain is located at the intersection of three roads (tre vie) and is named after this location. The fountain was designed by the architect Nicola Salvi and completed in 1762. It is a stunning work of art, featuring a central figure of Neptune, the Roman god of the sea, surrounded by sculptures of sea horses and other mythical creatures. The fountain is considered a symbol of Rome and is featured in many films and works of art. It is also a popular spot for tourists, who throw coins into the fountain, making a wish as they do so.
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