Pope Leo XIV Returns to Historic Summer Retreat at Castel Gandolfo
This summer marks a revival of a cherished papal tradition as Pope Leo XIV heads to Castel Gandolfo for his vacation. Nestled above the serene Lake Albano about an hour south of Rome, the historic papal palace will welcome a pope after more than a decade. Elected in May of this year, Pope Leo XIV is set to spend two weeks in this tranquil haven, with plans for a return visit in mid-August to continue his period of rest and spiritual reflection.
Breaking and Making Papal Traditions
The tradition of summer retreats at Castel Gandolfo was a long-standing one, uninterrupted until 2013. That year, Pope Francis chose to break from this custom, preferring to stay at his modest Vatican residence throughout the summer months. Known for his humility and preference for simplicity over ceremony, Francis only visited the palace a few times and converted it into a public museum, opening its splendid Renaissance gardens and centuries-old papal garments to visitors.
Local residents in Castel Gandolfo recall the early years without a visiting pope as a challenging adjustment. However, the town has since embraced a new identity as a popular tourist spot—transitioning from a solely pilgrim-driven destination. "Even though Francis didn’t come, he gave us a spiritual charge," reflects Maurizio Carosi, a lifelong local who runs a bar and shop opposite the palace.
Preparations and Upgrades for the New Pontiff
While the historic Apostolic Palace remains a museum, Pope Leo XIV and his Swiss Guard will reside in a nearby newly renovated building within the palace grounds. In anticipation of his arrival, workers have been busy restoring a tennis court to accommodate the athletic pope’s passion for sports. Gardeners have also been tending the lawns, ensuring the surroundings are at their freshest.
The Pope’s Work During Vacation: Rest Does Not Mean Idle
Though summer vacations traditionally pause public and private audiences, the pope’s spiritual responsibilities continue uninterrupted. According to local clergy, popes throughout history have used this retreat not just for rest but also as a working sanctuary; for instance, Pope John Paul II is known to have penned encyclicals during his stays here.
Pope Leo XIV is expected to celebrate Mass on July 13 at the Pontifical Parish of Saint Thomas of Villanova and on July 20 at the Cathedral of Albano. He will also lead the Angelus prayer in the town’s Liberty Square on both days, maintaining close connection with the local community amid his retreat.
Residents like Carosi are optimistic about the new pope’s presence, noting the serene setting and the welcoming people will provide a fitting backdrop for rest and reflection. "He’ll have the fresh air, a beautiful view of the lake, and the chance for long walks in the gardens," Carosi says, highlighting the natural charm that awaits Pope Leo.
Looking Ahead: Key Dates and Events
- July 13: Mass at Pontifical Parish of Saint Thomas of Villanova
- July 20: Mass at Cathedral of Albano and Angelus prayer at Liberty Square
- Mid-August: Return for Feast of the Assumption with Mass and Angelus on August 15 and final Angelus on August 17
During these periods, regular Vatican audiences are suspended, allowing the pope both space for rest and uninterrupted periods of prayer and contemplation.
Pope Leo Signals Continuity in Child Protection Efforts
In a notable leadership move, Pope Leo XIV appointed Bishop Thibault Verny of France as the new head of the Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors. This advisory body plays a crucial role in the Vatican’s ongoing efforts to safeguard children and support victims of abuse.
Bishop Verny, 59, succeeds Cardinal Seán O’Malley — who had led the commission since its inception in 2014. Verny brings extensive experience from his work overseeing child protection initiatives within the French bishops’ conference, including the management of victim reception centers following a landmark 2021 report on clergy abuse.
Through these significant changes and the restoration of centuries-old customs, Pope Leo XIV’s summer at Castel Gandolfo is shaping up to be a meaningful chapter in the papacy’s evolving narrative.
