ALREADY KNOW YOUR NEXT DESTINATION?
DOWNLOAD YOUR FREE AUDIOGUIDE

Ponte Sant'Angelo

Ponte Sant'Angelo (74)

This is, without doubt, the most elegant of the bridges over the river Tiber. It was built by Hadrian between the years 134 and 139 AD, to join his mausoleum with the other riverbank. In the past, pilgrims used the bridge to reach the Basilica of Saint Peter. It was therefore also known as "Saint Peter’s bridge".

The great crowd of pilgrims who attended the jubilee of 1450, prompted the balustrade to give way as it could not withstand their weight. Many people died when they fell into the river. In response to this incident, the houses next to the river entrance and a Roman triumphal arch were demolished to broaden the way for pilgrims. In subsequent centuries, the site was also used to display the bodies of those executed.

It was in 1667 that Bernini designed the ten angels that decorate the handrail. Each of these represents one of the themes from the passion of Christ. They have curiously been given the nickname “Breezy Maniacs”, because of the expressions of ecstasy on their faces.

ALL POINTS OF INTEREST
This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website

ACCEPT
+ INFO