Castel gandolfo: Pope Leo XIV commenced his rest and relaxation period at Castel Gandolfo, the historic papal summer residence located south of Rome, on Monday. The location, previously closed and transformed into a museum by Pope Francis, has reopened some of its facilities to accommodate the pontiff.
According to Ansa News Agency, Pope Leo XIV, who arrived in the town on Sunday afternoon, plans to remain there until July 20. During his stay, the Pope will engage in rest, prayer, and meditation, while also preparing speeches for the upcoming Jubilee of Youth and reviewing important dossiers for his future work. He is accompanied by his trusted secretary, Peruvian don Edgard Iv¡n Rimaycuna Inga.
Currently residing in Villa Barberini, traditionally used by the Secretary of State, Pope Leo XIV has chosen not to close the oasis dedicated to his predecessor’s ‘green’ encyclical Laudato si’. The Apostolic Palace will continue to function as a museum, honoring the decision of Pope Francis. Notably, Pope Leo XIV is attending the retreat without other members of the Curia, a departure from the practice during Benedict XVI’s papacy.
The Pope’s schedule includes two Angelus prayers on July 13 and July 20. On Wednesday, he will officiate the Catholic Church’s first-ever ‘green’ mass, adhering to a new formulary focused on “the care of creation,” in the Borgo Laudato si’. The tradition of using Castel Gandolfo as a summer residence dates back to 1626, under Pope Urban VIII.
Monsignor Vincenzo Viva, the bishop of the local diocese of Albano, expressed the significance of Pope Leo XIV’s presence, noting that the Pope had been appointed cardinal bishop of Albano before his papal election. Monsignor Viva highlighted the diocese’s vibrant religious community and expressed pride in being the first Italian diocese to welcome Pope Leo XIV for rites outside the Vatican.
