Pope Leo XIV Arrives at Castel Gandolfo, Reviving Papal Summer Retreat Tradition
Pope Leo XIV Arrives at Castel Gandolfo, Reviving Papal Summer Retreat Tradition
CASTEL GANDOLFO, Italy — Pope Leo XIV arrived at the historic papal summer retreat in Castel Gandolfo on Sunday, commencing a six-week vacation aimed at restoring ‘body and spirit.’ This move marks a significant resumption of a centuries-old papal tradition, which was paused during Pope Francis’s 12-year pontificate.
The 69-year-old Chicago native, history’s first American pope, was greeted by well-wishers lining the main road into the hilltop town. He waved from the balcony of Villa Barberini, where he will be staying, and expressed his hope that “everyone can have some vacation time to restore the body and spirit.”
This marks Pope Leo XIV’s inaugural break following a demanding period since his May 8 election, which included numerous inaugural audiences, outings, and Holy Year celebrations. While he plans to engage in a few public events, the primary focus of his time at the picturesque estate overlooking Lake Alban is rest, reflection, and preparation for key issues facing his pontificate.
The town of Castel Gandolfo, whose rhythms historically revolved around papal visits, welcomes the return of its most illustrious resident. Past popes regularly used the estate for summer breaks, and while Pope Francis transformed parts of it into a museum, Leo XIV’s presence is expected to bring back a sense of tradition and renewed energy to the community.
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