In brief
This anticipated visit excites locals, rekindling hopes for a festive summer season.
Castel Gandolfo, renowned for its breathtaking views and papal history, is buzzing with anticipation! For four centuries, popes found refuge from the sweltering Roman summer at the peaceful villa here. Popes John Paul II and Benedict XVI used to spend months enjoying the cooler climate while continuing their duties. But the trend shifted when Pope Francis chose to break away from tradition, making only fleeting visits in 2013 and rarely returning thereafter, leaving locals feeling abandoned—“We were orphaned,” lamented resident Maurizio Carosi. Now, the announcement of Pope Leo XIV’s upcoming two-week stay in July has rekindled much excitement. Mayor Alberto De Angelis exclaimed, “The Vatican is part of our city’s DNA,” emphasizing the significance of the pope's presence. With preparations ramping up, locals are ready to embrace the return of papal visits, hoping it will bring life back to their beloved town!
