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Porta Castello |
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1. |
Mole Adriano, oggi Castel S Angelo |
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2. |
Ponte, e corridoreposidal Palazzo Vaticano si passa nel Castello |
Porta Castello takes its name from the Castel S. Angelo (1), the medieval fortification built on the foundation of Hadrian's tomb seen here as a massive drum surmounted by Papal refuge and crowning angel. The original wall defining Borgo was built in the mid 9th century by Leo IV (847-855). Part of this wall, which incorporates the long corridore or escape passage (2) from the Vatican to the Castel S. Angelo added by Alexander VI (1492-1503), is visible in the print behind the Renaissance wall built by Pius IV Medici (1559-65). The only decorative elements on this otherwise austere gate are the two large balls placed at the ends of the architrave. These must be a reference to the Medici coat of arms, a motif which is used also on Porta Pia, Plate 4. The modest building at far right appears on the Nolli map at the convergence of the two roads approaching the gate, also visible on the print.
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