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Discover the Passetto di Borgo, the Secret Passage of the Popes Between the Vatican and Castel Sant’Angelo. Explore Its History and Mysteries!
Rome reveals once again one of its most fascinating secrets: the Passetto di Borgo, the historic secret passage of the popes that connects Castel Sant’Angelo to the Vatican, is once again accessible to the public.
After being closed for visits for six years, the medieval structure reopens with guided tours during the day and night, allowing tourists to explore a path full of history and mystery.
A Secret Corridor for the Security of the Popes
Built in the 13th century, the Passetto di Borgo was originally designed to ensure the safety of the Popes in times of crisis.
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The underground passage of approximately 800 meters connects the Torre del Mascherino, in Piazza della Città Leonina, to the Bastione San Marco, at Castel Sant’Angelo.
For centuries, it served as an escape route and defense for the pontiffs, being essential during historical moments of invasions and conflicts.
The corridor was used, for example, by Pope Clement VII during the Sack of Rome in 1527 when the troops of Charles V invaded the city.
The Passetto ensured his safe escape to Castel Sant’Angelo, where he remained besieged for months.
Immersive Experience and Tour Options
Now restored, the Passetto di Borgo can be explored through three types of guided tours:
Daytime Guided Tour: exclusively covers the Passetto, revealing its medieval architecture and historical secrets;
Combined Tour to Castel Sant’Angelo: includes the secret passage and exploration of the castle, which today houses a museum;
Special Night Tour: offers an exclusive tour without the presence of other groups, creating an even more enigmatic atmosphere.
Visitors can walk through two levels of the Passetto: an uncovered upper level, which offers panoramic views of Rome and the Vatican, and a covered lower level, which served as the secret path of the Popes.
The tour ends at Castel Sant’Angelo, where an exhibition tells the story of the site with artifacts and documents.
Investments and Future Improvements
The reopening of the Passetto di Borgo is part of a comprehensive conservation project. The Italian government has allocated €2.5 million, equivalent to about R$ 15 million, for new improvements to the structure of the corridor and Castel Sant’Angelo over the next three years.
Currently, the fortress is one of the main museums in Rome, where visitors can explore everything from the ancient halls of the mausoleum of Emperor Hadrian to prison cells and luxurious papal apartments.
Tickets and How to Visit
Guided tours take place in groups of 25 people, with prices starting at €16, approximately R$ 95. Tickets can be purchased online, ensuring access to one of Rome’s most intriguing historical passages.
Whether for history, architecture, or the atmosphere of mystery, exploring the Passetto di Borgo is an unmissable experience for anyone visiting the Eternal City.
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