The Passetto di Borgo’s origins date to the 6th century but it was not until 1277 that it was established as an escape route. Its most famous use came during the 1527 Sack of Rome, when Pope Clement VII evaded imperial forces via the corridor, seeking refuge in the heavily fortified Castel Sant’Angelo. (AP Video shot by Paolo Santalucia; Production by Maria Grazia Murru)
Secret 13th century escape passage for popes reopens to public
The Passetto di Borgo’s origins date to the 6th century but it was not until 1277 that it was established as an escape route. Its most famous use came during the 1527 Sack of Rome, when Pope Clement VII evaded imperial forces via the corridor, seeking refuge in the heavily fortified Castel Sant’Angelo. (AP Video shot by Paolo Santalucia; Production by Maria Grazia Murru)