Pope Leo XIV is set to revive a long-standing tradition by spending his summer retreat at Castel Gandolfo, the historic papal residence nestled in the Alban Hills south of Rome. From July 6 to 20, he will take residence in the serene town, marking the first papal summer stay there in over a decade.
Castel Gandolfo, known for its cool hillside climate and baroque charm, has been a favored summer escape for pontiffs since the 17th century. The last pope to regularly vacation there was Pope Benedict XVI. His successor, Pope Francis, chose to remain at the Vatican throughout his tenure and opened the papal palace to the public, transforming it into a museum.
Unlike previous popes, Leo will not stay in the palace itself but in a nearby Vatican-owned villa. The palace will remain open to tourists, maintaining the town’s steady flow of visitors. Local residents and business owners have welcomed the news with enthusiasm. Mayor Alberto De Angelis and local café owner Stefano Carosi both noted that the pope’s return brings renewed interest and energy to the area.
The pope’s schedule will include limited public engagements. He will deliver Angelus prayers on July 13 and July 20, and is also expected to return in August for the Assumption Day observance. His visit balances privacy with tradition, offering the faithful a chance to participate in spiritual events while restoring a sense of seasonal rhythm.
Castel Gandolfo, often referred to as one of Italy’s most picturesque towns, is already benefiting from its growing status as a cultural destination. Since the opening of the papal gardens and museum, the area has seen a steady increase in tourism. Pope Leo’s presence is expected to further enhance the town’s visibility and economic vitality.
For luxury travelers and cultural enthusiasts alike, the renewed use of Castel Gandolfo signals a return to refined, meaningful tradition in the heart of Italy’s countryside.
