Castel Sant'Angelo (Family Visit)

An honest-to-goodness castle in the middle of Rome — kids love climbing the ancient spiral ramps once used by horses, exploring the secret passages, and reaching the dramatic rooftop terrace marked by a giant bronze archangel. Originally Hadrian's mausoleum, later a papal fortress and prison. The connecting Passetto corridor to the Vatican (occasionally open) was used by Pope Clement VII to flee in 1527 — a great tale to tell kids.