Overview

• On July 6, Pope Leo XIV arrived at Castel Gandolfo for his first summer residence there, reviving a tradition paused under Pope Francis since 2013.
• He will lead his weekly Angelus prayer from the gardens of the Castel Gandolfo estate instead of in St. Peter’s Square.
• Vatican crews have begun refurbishing the long-vacant papal apartments while new sports amenities— including a tennis court, swimming pool and boccia pitch—are already in use.
• The pontiff suspended public audiences in Rome for the duration of his stay to prioritize rest and local engagements.
• Hotel, restaurant and souvenir businesses in the 9,000-resident town are preparing for increased visitor traffic as his presence is expected to boost tourism.