Rome

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Castel Sant’Angelo

Begun by Emperor Hadrian as his own mausoleum in AD 135, Castel Sant’ Angelo has been a fortress, prison and papal residence. It now plays host to temporary art shows, although the real pleasure of a visit lies in wandering from Hadrian’s original spiralling ramp entrance to the upper terraces, with their superb views over the city. Between, there is much to see: lavish Renaissance salons, decorated with spectacular frescoes and trompe l’oeils; the glorious chapel in the Cortile d’Onore designed by Michelangelo; and, halfway up an easily missed staircase, Clement VII’s tiny bathroom, painted by Giulio Romano.

Event highlights ‘Baroque Rome: Bernini, Borromini and Pietro da Cortona’, until 29 Oct 2006.

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