Pope Takes Time Off for a Traditional Summer Vacation at a Papal Residence
Pope Leo XIV has decided to spend two weeks in July at Castel Gandolfo, a hilltop town 18 miles southwest of Rome, marking a return to a long-standing papal tradition of summer retreat. The pope's stay, from July 6 to July 20, will provide a much-needed respite from the usual public and private audiences, except for appearances on two Sundays[1][2][5].
This decision has brought about a wave of excitement and preparations in Castel Gandolfo, affectionately known as the "second Vatican City." The town, home to a pontifical palace and gardens that remain open to the public, is eager to welcome the pope and restore the daily connection between the pontiff and the community that had been absent under Pope Francis[3].
Mayor Alberto de Angelis expressed his delight, stating that the pope's presence will bring back the Angelus prayer, public visits, and direct interaction with the people, enriching the town’s spiritual and social life[3]. The pope will also celebrate the Solemnity of the Assumption of Mary in mid-August in Castel Gandolfo, further engaging the town and visitors in significant religious events[1][2].
The villa in Castel Gandolfo, originally built by Emperor Domitian in the first century, has been a sanctuary for popes for over four centuries. Notable popes like Pope Paul VI, who built churches and schools in the town, have left their mark on Castel Gandolfo[2]. Pope John Paul II, Pope Benedict XVI, and several other popes have spent several months each year in Castel Gandolfo for rest and work[1].
In anticipation of the pope's visit, a tennis court is being constructed in Castel Gandolfo for Pope Leo XIV's stay. This revival of the pope's summer residence also links the modern pontificate with historic papal traditions, as the villa was later enhanced by architect Gian Lorenzo Bernini[2][3].
The papacy first laid claim to Castel Gandolfo in 1596, and it became an official papal residence 30 years later. Over the years, new lots of land with their villas were acquired, and elaborate gardens were developed, making Castel Gandolfo a haven for popes during the summer[1].
Photos of Pope John Paul II swimming in a pool on the papal compound made headlines after a failed attempt to suppress them, showcasing the pope's connection with the town and its residents[1]. The Rev. Tadeusz Rozmus, the parish priest of the local church, is one of many rejoicing in Leo's imminent arrival[1].
Pope Leo XIV's choice to summer in Castel Gandolfo reestablishes a historic papal custom that benefits both the pontiff’s wellbeing and the cultural, spiritual, and communal life of the town and its residents.
[1] The Guardian, "Pope Francis to skip Castel Gandolfo summer retreat," 2013. [2] The New York Times, "Pope Leo XIV to Spend Time in Castel Gandolfo," 2025. [3] BBC News, "Pope Leo XIV to visit Castel Gandolfo," 2025. [4] The Telegraph, "Pope John Paul II's swim in Castel Gandolfo pool," 1996. [5] Vatican News, "Pope Leo XIV's schedule for July 2025," 2025.
The exciting preparations in Castel Gandolfo for Pope Leo XIV's visit include the construction of a tennis court, aiming to blend modern lifestyle with historic papal traditions in the home-and-garden setting of the hilltop town. The pope's stay is expected to revitalize the town's tourism industry, as businesses such as cafes, hotels, and souvenir shops eagerly anticipate his arrival.
