Our Rome Tour - Medieval Rome

Medieval Rome

	Trastevere - Santa Maria In Trastevere - Castel Sant'Angelo
	From the medieval quarter of Trastevere and its beautiful church dedicated to the Virgin to the fortress of Castel Sant'Angelo, where the Popes seeked shelter from their enemies

Life in Medieval Italy was hard for almost everyone. Medieval Rome was the heart of Christendom's awesome power, and art was limited mainly to church interiors with didactical purposes. The best preserved medieval district is Trastevere where we'll stroll through the narrow streets of a lively, characteristic neighborhood to came to S. Maria in Trastevere. Believed to have been founded by Pope St. Calixtus (221-27) was completely ruibuilt by Innocent II in 12 C. The first of many churches in Rome dedicated to the Virgin Mary, this is one of the city's masterpieces. It is decorated with famous Medieval mosaics that date back to the 12th century.

Our visit continues in Castle Sant'Angelo, whose history could almost be considered the history of Rome itself. Inside, we can trace the castle's passage through the ages and its different functions. Originally built in 136AD by Emperor Hadrian as a burial place for himself and his family, Castel Sant'Angelo was later restored and rebuilt several times during the centuries. It became a fortress and prison during the Middle Ages, used by popes as a refuge in times of danger. In the Renaissance the fortress was reinforced and splendid apartments were created within it. those are considered to be the best preserved Renaissance papal apartments. The building became a museum in 1925 and contains an historical armoury collection and the beautiful frescos in the apartments of the popes.