Carmen Álvarez Cuadrado
This July, Pope Leo XIV will move from Villa Barberini to the traditional summer residence of the popes, the Apostolic Palace. Under Pope Francis, the palace had been turned into a museum.
Rome Reports had already reported that renovations would be carried out in the building to give it a face-lift prior to the move. Now, a crane in the middle of the courtyard and workers from various construction and painting companies can be seen around the palace.
FABIO BOCCACCI
Osteria La Fraschetta (Castel Gandolfo)
I’ve heard that renovation work is being done.
Unfortunately, they might close the palace to visitors, which is still a very beautiful thing and very interesting to visit, but compared to having the Pope here, well, it’s much better.
Various sources have confirmed with Rome Reports that the date of the pope's move to the palace will be upon his return from Lampedusa, on Saturday, July 4.
This information is an open secret among local residents and businesses as well, which have high expectations for this summer.
PIERLUIGI FORTINI
Trattoria La Scarpetta (Castel Gandolfo)
Yes, they are carrying out interior works. Pope Leo is expected to arrive here on the evening of July 4, and as far as we know, on the morning of the 5th he will already give his first Angelus right here in the square.
We are waiting for him because these days there are few people, that is, there aren’t many people around.
The museum will remain closed throughout July while the pope is in town. During his stay, the famous Ferragosto will also take place, which is a traditional Italian holiday on August 15. Pope Leo spent the special day in Castel Gandolfo last year and this year he will do the same, but in the newly renovated palace.
For now, tickets for the Apostolic Palace museum remain available for the other months. Certain parts of the papal apartments that were previously open to the public, however, will be off limits since they are now part of Leo's private residence.
At Villa Barberini—where the pope had been staying every Tuesday since the beginning of his papacy—minor renovations are meanwhile being carried out. The villa will remain private, serving as the pope’s guest house or a place where part of the accompanying papal staff can stay.
