Pope Leo XIV arrived at Castel Gandolfo on Sunday, marking a return to tradition as he begins a six-week vacation. The town, situated on a hilltop, welcomes him back after Pope Francis opted not to visit during his papacy. As Leo greeted well-wishers, he emphasized the importance of rest, stating, “I hope everyone can have some vacation time to restore the body and spirit.”
The 69-year-old, originally from Chicago, continues the custom of escaping the Vatican’s summer heat for the cooler climate of Castel Gandolfo, located south of Rome. This area has been a retreat spot since the era of Emperor Domitian in the first century. Following his May 8 election as the first American pope, Leo is set to enjoy his first break after engaging in numerous activities including audiences, meetings, and Holy Year events.
“Since he was elected, he has been working, working, working. It is time for him to get more energy and get strength for his mission,” said Sister Mary Livia, a nun who welcomed Leo.
While on holiday, Leo will participate in public events such as Masses and Sunday prayers. His schedule also includes occasional events back at the Vatican. However, the emphasis will be on rest and contemplation on key issues confronting his papacy.
Benefits to Castel Gandolfo
Pope Urban VIII constructed the papal palace in Castel Gandolfo in 1624 to offer popes a refuge from Rome. Over the years, it has expanded and now covers 55 hectares, larger than Vatican City itself. The estate includes a functioning farm, gardens, and an observatory. Recently, an environmental educational center inspired by Pope Francis’ 2015 encyclical, Laudato Si, has been established there.
Historically, popes spent summers in Castel Gandolfo, attracting numerous pilgrims eager to hear the noon blessing. Pope Benedict XVI notably ended his papacy at the estate in February 2013. Pope Francis, however, preferred to stay in Rome for the summer months, initially affecting the local economy.
Despite this, Francis opened the papal palace and gardens to the public all year, transforming it into a museum. This decision, while differing from the traditional summer crowds, provided Castel Gandolfo with a steady influx of tourists.
Simone Mariani, a local restaurateur, explained that the continuous flow of tourists benefited his business more than the seasonal summer visitors. Yet, the town missed the vibrant atmosphere that accompanied regular papal visits. Patrizia Gasperini, who manages a souvenir shop near the palace, shared, “All year, we’d miss the color, the movement, but we knew when summer came he would return. So when Pope Francis decided not to come, we were upset on an emotional level, beyond the economic level.”
Potential for Church Impact
Now repurposed into a museum, Leo will reside in the Villa Barberini, a smaller building that previously hosted the Vatican secretary of state. Mayor Alberto De Angelis expressed hopes that Pope Leo XIV might also choose Castel Gandolfo for vacations throughout the year, mirroring St. John Paul II.
Traditionally, popes have used their time at Castel Gandolfo to craft important church documents and encyclicals. De Angelis hopes Leo will continue this tradition, producing writings that resonate globally. “We hope Pope Leo produces some text, some encyclical here that has a global reach,” De Angelis said.