Hadrianus started building Hadrianus mausoleum, however it was completed after his death by his successor Antoninus Pius. Castel Sant’ Angelo was ment to be Hadrianu’s mausoleum but it has also been used as a grave for many other emperors. It has also been a refuge for several Popes.

The building itself is not really extravagant, but it is situated in lovely surroundings by the river Tiber. The bridge Ponte Sant’ Angelo which takes you to Castel Sant’ Angelo across the Tiber is one of the most beautiful bridges one can find in Rome.

The bridge was designed 134 A.D. by Hadrianus and was then embellished with Roman statues. These were later removed and Bernini was given the mission to create new sculptures. Each one of these statues is a masterpiece and one can see what a great sculptor Bernini was. Take your time strolling across the bride, where by the way no cars are allowed.