NAIROBI, Kenya — A rainy Sunday didn’t stop thousands of pilgrims and curious tourists from making the climb to Castel Gandolfo, a charming hilltop village just 20 kilometers southeast of Rome. Their destination? A historic first glimpse—and blessing—from newly elected Pope Leo, who delivered his debut Angelus prayer from the summer papal residence.
Standing beneath the stately facade of the Apostolic Palace and flanked by two Swiss Guards in full ceremonial attire, Pope Leo greeted the crowd with a smile and heartfelt thanks.
“I am happy to be among you… and thank you all for your warm welcome,” he said, waving to the sea of umbrellas and phones capturing the moment.
This marked a significant return to tradition. Pope Francis, who famously opted out of summering at Castel Gandolfo during his papacy, had left the villa mostly unused.
But Pope Leo is breathing new life into the iconic estate, arriving on July 6 for a two-week spiritual retreat and signaling a revival of papal summer getaways.
Before delivering the Angelus, the pontiff celebrated mass at the nearby Church of Saint Thomas of Villanova—a Renaissance gem overlooking the volcanic Lake Albano.
He then crossed the piazza to greet the throngs waiting outside, many of whom had braved a morning drizzle for a chance to witness the new pope in person.
As bells rang out across the hillside, Pope Leo offered a prayer that resonated deeply with many in the crowd.
“Let us not forget to pray for peace and for all those who find themselves in suffering and need because of war,” he said, in a reminder of his commitment to global unity and compassion.
The day wasn’t just a spiritual milestone—it was also a moment of cultural nostalgia for a town that had long played host to papal summers.
Locals in Castel Gandolfo, whose economy is tied closely to tourism and Vatican visitors, welcomed the renewed energy Pope Leo’s visit has brought.
With Castel Gandolfo officially back on the papal itinerary, this Angelus wasn’t just a prayer—it was a return to a cherished ritual that had, until now, felt quietly paused.
