Ponte Sant'Angelo crosses the Tiber to reach Castel Sant'Angelo. This was built by Hadrian. In the Middle Ages, this was the only bridge that connected downtown Rome with the Vatican.
The bridge is decorated with 10 angels, each designed by Bernini and each bearing a symbol of the passion of Christ. This angel was one of 2 angels actually finished by Bernini and has the crown of thorns.
This angel carries Christ's garment with dice--Christ's garments were gambled away.
Castel Sant'Angelo was built as a tomb by Emperor Hadrian. It has served as a castle, prison and refuge of last resort for popes under attack (there is a passageway that connects the Castel with the Vatican). Today, it is a museum.
A statue of Hadrian used to top the Castel but he was replaced by the Archangel Michael in 590.
Chiesa di Sant'Agostino is a Roman Catholic Church, one of the first ones built during the Renaissance. It contains several important artwork.
Madonna del Parto by Sansovino.
Looking left of the nave, you'll find Rafael's fresco "The Prophet Isaiah" on one of the pillars.
I missed Caravaggio's painting "Madonna dei Pellegrini," which was considered scandalous because Mary had dirty feet.
We stopped for a cappuccino break at MargheRita, a cafe we passed. Be sure you have your cappuccino before 11am. After that, you'll be ridiculed. If you stand at the counter, your cappuccino is €1.20. Sit down and the same cappuccino will cost €3.50.
Our next stop was Chiesa di Sant'Ignazio.
The central black dome is fake. It's a flat surface painted to look like a dome.
The ceiling is a colorful fresco. If you don't want to hurt your neck, use the large mirrors.
In the right transept, you'll find the tomb of Pope Gregory XV.
The curtains carved out of stone are impressive.
2019 04 11
No comments:
Post a Comment