Visiting timetable09:00 AM – 07:30 PM
|Friday, January 9, 2026Lungotevere Castello, 50, 00193 Rome, Italy
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Passetto di Borgo – History and Visitor Access
History of the Passetto di Borgo: creation under Nicholas III, escapes by Alexander VI and Clement VII, and guidance for limited modern access.
11/8/2025
13 min read
A raised, fortified thread binding Vatican to fortress, the Passetto turned topography into survival.
1. Origins & Purpose
- Built under Nicholas III (Orsini): a tactical lifeline anticipating urban volatility.
- Function: protected transit for pontiffs between palace and bulwark.
2. Famous Flights
- 1494: Alexander VI evades French king Charles VIII.
- 1527: Clement VII escapes Sack of Rome chaos; Passetto proves decisive.
3. Architecture in Brief
Brick-faced elevated corridor with watch niches; its modest exterior hides high-stakes history.
4. How to See It Today
- Full traverse is not available; periodic guided segments open seasonally.
- Watch official channels and reputable tour providers; limited numbers, book early.
5. Pairing Tip
Walk Borgo Pio after your visit for a quiet, atmospheric coda.
Bottom Line
More than a passage, the Passetto is a narrative: prudence, crisis, escape—etched into the skyline.
About the Author
Telmo Rolando
I wrote this guide to help you explore Castel Sant’Angelo with confidence — clear tickets, smart routes and the highlights you shouldn’t miss.
Tags
Passetto di Borgo
papal escape
Nicholas III
Alexander VI
Clement VII
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