tourism

Pope Leo XIV Spent His Summer Vacation At The Castel Gandolfo In Italy

Pope Leo XIV has chosen Castel Gandolfo, Italy, for his summer vacation. Castel Gandolfo is a papal residence utilized by the popes to spend their summer holidays. According to the Catholic News Agency, Pope Leo XIV commenced his summer vacation on Sunday (July 6, 2025). The arrival of Pope Leo XIV was met with enthusiasm from the public, who shouted "Viva Papa" while capturing his arrival with their cameras. Castel Gandolfo is located 15 miles southeast of Rome and sits at an elevation of approximately 426 meters above sea level. From Castel Gandolfo, one can enjoy a view of Lake Albano.

The Pope is scheduled to reside at Villa Barberini in Castel Gandolfo until July 20. For centuries, popes have been known to spend their summer breaks in this expansive 135-hectare area.

The New York Times has reported that the swimming pool at Castel Gandolfo has been renovated. Additionally, a new tennis court has been constructed for Pope Leo XIV, who is recognized for his appreciation of sports and physical fitness. Popes Pius XII, John XXIII, Paul VI, John Paul II, and Benedict XVI are noted to have spent at least part of their summers at Castel Gandolfo following the Lateran Pact of 1929.

Meanwhile, Pope Francis opted not to use Castel Gandolfo as his summer retreat during his 12-year papacy. The late Pope Francis instead chose to open Castel Gandolfo to the public in 2014 and 2016, transforming the papal residence into a museum.

The palace grounds and gardens will remain open to the public during Pope Leo XIV's stay. Pope Leo XIV is expected to reside at Villa Barberini. Castel Gandolfo's Mayor Alberto de Angelis informed ACI Prensa, a Spanish-language news partner of CNA, that Pope Leo XIV's presence will restore the daily connection between the city and the Pope. "The Angelus prayer, visits, contact with the faithful. We wish to experience all of that again," de Angelis stated.

Tag: Castel Gandolfo Italy Pope Leo XIV