In a statement released on June 17, 2025, by the Prefecture of the Papal Household, it was announced that Pope Leo XIV had chosen to spend a summer period of rest at the Pontifical Villas of Castel Gandolfo, nestled in the hills overlooking Lake Albano. The transfer took place on the afternoon of Sunday, July 6, marking the return of a long-standing tradition that had been interrupted in recent years. During his stay at Castel Gandolfo, the Pope received both private and public visits, dedicated time to prayer, took brief walks in the gardens of the Pontifical Villas, and enjoyed moments of rest. Initially, his return to the Vatican was scheduled for Sunday, July 20, following the recitation of the Angelus. However, together with his collaborators, Pope Leo XIV decided to extend his stay for a few more days, seeing in this place of quiet a precious opportunity for recollection and renewal.
A Palace Suspended Between Heaven and Earth
The Apostolic Palace of Castel Gandolfo, also known as the summer residence of the Popes, is more than a simple holiday retreat. It stands upon the ruins of the imperial residence of the Roman Emperor Domitian and, over the centuries, has welcomed key figures of the Church and European history. The palace was acquired by the Holy See in 1596 under Pope Clement VIII, but it was Pope Urban VIII Barberini, in the early 17th century, who transformed it into a papal residence, entrusting its architecture to Carlo Maderno.
Since then, the Pontifical Villas have witnessed long periods of silence and moments of intense diplomatic activity. They have served as refuge and place of reflection, as well as a setting for meetings and significant decisions. Pius XII and Paul VI passed away there, leaving Castel Gandolfo with the silent imprint of their final days. John Paul II found rest in its tranquil gardens. Benedict XVI returned there after his renunciation of the Petrine ministry, spending his first days as Pope Emeritus at the villa. He would return on several occasions in the following years, preserving that place as a space of recollection and memory.
A Simple Schedule: Liturgy and Recollection
During Pope Leo XIV’s stay at Castel Gandolfo, all private and general audiences for the month of July have been suspended, including those scheduled for July 2, 9, 16, and 23. General audiences will resume on Wednesday, July 30.
In the meantime, a few public events will accompany the life of the local community:
Sunday, July 20: The Pope will preside over Mass at the Cathedral of Albano at 9:30 AM, followed by the recitation of the Angelus in Castel Gandolfo.
Friday, August 15: On the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Pope will return to Castel Gandolfo and celebrate Mass at 10:00 AM in the Pontifical Parish Church, followed by the Angelus in Piazza della Libertà at 12:00 PM.
Sunday, August 17: The Angelus will again be recited in Piazza della Libertà. The Pope is expected to return to the Vatican later that afternoon.