Pope Leo has taken a break, vacationing in this location, distinct from his forerunner.
Fresh Take:
Hey there! Pope Leo XIV is hopping on a tradition that's been dormant for a while - leading a summer retreat at Castel Gandolfo, near Rome, starting from July 6! The 69-year-old Pontiff's decision to retreat to this traditional papal summer residence comes after his predecessor, Pope Francis, opted to stay back in the Vatican during his tenure.
Leo plans to stay in the Apostolic Palace's renovated papal apartment, unlike Francis, who made the Vatican's guest house his home throughout his papacy. There's some fascinating history attached to Castel Gandolfo, a place where popes have visited for centuries to enjoy a break from Rome's heat and attend important religious and diplomatic events.
From July 6 to 20, 2025, Pope Leo XIV will be spending his days at this picturesque location, stepping out for a few days in mid-August too. During his stay, he will recite the traditional Angelus prayer on three Sundays, which usually attracts tens of thousands of spectators to St. Peter's Square. All private audiences with the pope have been cancelled for the month of July.
While Pope Francis chose to make Castel Gandolfo a museum and enroll it as an eco-university named "Borgo Laudato si," run by a US priest with Mexican roots, Manuel Dorantes, Pope Leo XIV's focus seems to be on reviving the traditional role of the palatial complex.
Castel Gandolfo, perched on the picturesque Lake Albano, boasts a rich history that dates back to the imperial Roman era. Over the centuries, the site has evolved from an ancient "Villa of Domitian" into a lush, gardens adorned with Renaissance and Baroque elements. Many popes have found solace and refuge in its verdant surroundings, including Clement XIV, who used the Pontifical Villas as a summer retreat for contemplation.
Interesting fact: Did you know that the Polish Pope John Paul II even built a swimming pool there in the 1980s? His German successor, Benedict XVI, too, spent extensive time at Castel Gandolfo, especially during the early period after his shocking resignation and later as well.
So here we are, witnessing the return of a fascinating tradition that's deeply rooted in the history and culture of the papacy. Let's see how Pope Leo XIV unfolds his time at Castel Gandolfo!
Pope Leo XIV's stay at Castel Gandolfo from July 6 to 20, 2025, and possibly beyond, signifies a revival of a tradition within the papal lifestyle, offering a unique travel destination for those interested in Roman history and religion. During his stay, Pope Leo XIV will maintain a connection with his followers, reciting the traditional Angelus prayer on three Sundays.
