Angels and Demons Top Sites in Rome and the Vatican

Where to See Places Featured in the Book and Movie Angels and Demons

Vatican City is a tiny sovereign independent state and home to the Pope. Saint Peter's Basilica, one of the world's largest churches, and the huge Saint Peter's Square dominate the Vatican and figure prominently in the movie. Entrance to Saint Peter's Basilica is free but to visit the Vatican excavations, the necropolis beneath Saint Peter's Basilica where part of the movie takes place, you'll have to reserve ahead for a guided visit (see link below).

How to Visit the Vatican Excavations
Saint Peter's Square and Basilica Photos

Castel Sant' Angelo, built as a tomb for Emperor Hadrian in the second century, was used as a fortress until it became a papal residence in the 14th century. A secret passageway, the Passetto, connects it to the Vatican. In the movie this is a secret ancient Illuminati spot used toward the end of the story. Today Castel Sant' Angelo hosts summer concerts. The Passetto is closed to the public although some of the exterior can be seen.

Vatican City Visitor Information

Piazza Navona is a lively square ringed with high end cafes and Baroque palaces. The stars of the oval-shaped piazza are three lavish Baroque fountains. The central fountain, Fountain of the Rivers or Fontana Dei Fiumi, represents Water on the Path of the Illumination in the story. Created by Bernini in the 1650's the fountain portrays four rivers - the Danube, the Ganges, the Nile, and the Rio de la Plata.

In-depth Look at Piazza Navona

Santa Maria del Popolo, in Piazza del Popolo, was one of the first Renaissance churches in Rome. In the Chigi Chapel, created by Raphael, are ceiling mosaics and pyramid-like tombs as well as statues by Bernini. The Chigi Chapel represents Earth on the Path of Illumination in the movie and book.

Photo: Piazza del Popolo and the twin churches of S. Maria di Montesanto and S. Maria dei Miracoli.

Rome's Pantheon, the ancient temple of all the gods, was built between AD 118-125 by Emperor Hadrian. Its dome was the largest dome ever until Brunelleschi's dome at the Florence Cathedral was built in 1420-36. In the 7th century it was made into a church by early Christians but it's still the best preserved building of ancient Rome. Today is surrounded by a pleasant and lively piazza, a nice place to sit in the evening and enjoy a drink. Admission to the Pantheon is free.

Pantheon Information on Europe Travel