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Rome, Italy: Castel Sant'Angelo – Fortress of the Eternal City with Livia Galante
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Its massive profile is a true landmark for the city and its story is as stratified as Rome itself. Before being turned into a castle, this was the monumental tomb of Publiius Aelius Adrianus, Hadrian, one of the most fascinating Roman emperors: philosopher, sculptor, architect, and painter. Hadrian chose the right bank of the river Tiber to build a mausoleum for himself and his family.
During the period of the barbaric invasion, around the 6th century AD, Castel Sant'Angelo became part of the Roman fortifications and was later turned into a strategic fortress by the Popes. The building, solid, gigantic, and apart from the city center, was also used as a prison. During the Renaissance, part of the complex was turned into lavish apartments where the Popes, in case of danger, could safely find refuge. The castle was connected with the Papal Palace in the Vatican through the famous “Passetto”, the hanging passageway still running from the Vatican State to the Castle. On top of the building, in the center of a beautiful belvedere terrace, stands the bronze statue of the Archangel Michael, who is said to have saved Rome from a terrible plague, at the time of Gregory the Great, at the beginning of the 7th century.
Led by an expert on ancient Roman Topography, Livia Galante, this conversation will explore a fascinating historical building of Rome. Designed to inform curiosity as well as future travels, participants will come away with increased comprehension of the role played by the building throughout the centuries as well as coming across some important historical figures connected with the structure.
Livia obtained a degree in Archaeology at the Sapienza University of Rome and has a Master's degree in the History and Conservation of Cultural Heritage from the University of Roma Tre. Her main field of interest is ancient Roman topography and early Christian architecture; however, she is an accomplished scholar whose teaching ability extends to the Renaissance and Baroque Rome. As a native Roman, Livia is very enthusiastic about sharing the deep love and knowledge she has for her hometown with clients.
This conversation is suitable for all ages.
90 minutes, including a 30 minute Q&A.
Another lecture with Livia and how I enjoyed it! She is so enthusiastic about er subjects she pulls you in no matter the topic. She has so much information presented in an engaging manner. I had no idea there was so much to the Castel. It made me realize how much I missed when I was there.
The lecture was fascinating and full of stories. The history of this Roman building has dramatically different episodes - of empire and war with Goths, of Papal power and Renaissance princes. Many kinds of art and architecture were involved. Wonderful presentation!
I very much enjoyed the lecture on the Castel Sant Angelo. It was very informative and interesting. The history is amazing, Now I want to visit!