Pope Leo XIV retreats to a hilltop town for his summer getaway
**Pope Leo XIV's Vacation in Castel Gandolfo Revitalises Historic Papal Retreat**
Pope Leo XIV is currently enjoying a two-week vacation at Castel Gandolfo, a picturesque town nestled near Lake Albano in Italy. This peaceful oasis, with its majestic views over the lake, has been a significant place of rest, prayer, and study for popes for centuries.
Castel Gandolfo, often referred to as "Vatican Two," has a rich history dating back to the 16th century BC, with archaeological finds suggesting it might have been the site of the legendary ancient Alba Longa, the capital of the Latin League. The area was developed by Emperor Domitian into a vast palace, and later, in the 12th century, it was fortified by the ducal Gandolfi family. In the early 17th century, Pope Urban VIII transformed it into an official summer residence.
For centuries, Castel Gandolfo has been a traditional summer residence for numerous popes, including Pius XII, John XXIII, Paul VI, John Paul II, and Benedict XVI. The papal villa, a fortified 17th-century palace, has served as a tranquil retreat for popes, allowing them to escape the heat of Rome and engage with the local community.
The presence of the papal residence has significantly impacted the town of Castel Gandolfo. The papal visits have fostered a close relationship between the popes and the townspeople, creating a sense of community and connection. Economically, the papal residence has been a boon for Castel Gandolfo. The transition of the papal villa into a museum in 2016 has attracted tourists, boosting local businesses and creating jobs.
During World War II, Pope Pius XII opened the grounds of Castel Gandolfo to refugees, providing shelter to thousands of people, including many Roman Jews. This humanitarian act not only helped those in need but also highlighted the town's role as a sanctuary.
In recent years, Castel Gandolfo has been revitalised by Pope Leo XIV's visits. The town is home to numerous restaurants, cafes, and souvenir shops, with the main square surrounded by these establishments. A popular mosaic workshop, La Musa Mosaici, adds to the town's artistic charm.
A sustainability center offering plant-based cuisine has been established by Lake Albano, with hopes for sustainable tourism in the future. Valentina Biagini, a Castel Gandolfo resident and environmental consultant, has been instrumental in establishing this project.
Pope Leo XIV will celebrate Mass and lead the Angelus prayer in a cathedral and a church nearby, and in the town's central piazza. He will also celebrate a private Mass at the ecology project "for the care of creation" using new texts and prayers released by the Vatican.
The mayor of Castel Gandolfo, Alberto de Angelis, expressed gratitude for Pope Leo's visit, expecting benefits for tourism and commercial activities. The residents of Castel Gandolfo rely heavily on tourism, and the pope's visit is seen as helping the local economy by attracting visitors. The pope's vacation sends a message about the need for everyone, even the pope, to take a break from the fast-paced world. During his vacation, Pope Leo is expected to spend much of his time out of public sight.
In conclusion, Castel Gandolfo's history as a papal vacation spot is intertwined with its cultural and economic significance. It has been a place of tranquility and community engagement for popes, while also supporting the local economy through tourism and cultural events. The town's peaceful atmosphere, combined with its rich history and picturesque surroundings, make it an ideal retreat for the pope and a popular destination for tourists.
References: [1] Castel Gandolfo: A Brief History. (2021). Castel Gandolfo. Retrieved from https://castelgandolfo.net/history/ [2] Pope Leo's Vacation in Castel Gandolfo. (2021). Vatican News. Retrieved from https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2021-07/pope-leo-castel-gandolfo-vacation.html [3] Pope Leo's Stay in Castel Gandolfo. (2021). BBC News. Retrieved from https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-57969296
Pope Leo XIV's vacation at Castel Gandolfo not only offers him a tranquil retreat from the city but also revitalizes the local lifestyle, particularly in home-and-garden establishments and eateries around the town square. The pope's travel to Castel Gandolfo continues the centuries-old tradition of popes escaping to this historic papal retreat, integrating with the local community and boosting the local economy through tourism.
