Charles Esther
On Wednesday, August 13, 2025, Pope Leo XIV traveled back to Castel Gandolfo after spending part of July at the historic papal summer home.
He departed the Vatican at around 4:30 p.m. local time and arrived at the residence, where he had previously stayed from July 6 to 22.
Historic Summer Retreat Overlooking Lake Albano
Castel Gandolfo, located about 15 miles from Rome along the shores of Lake Albano, has been the traditional summer retreat for popes over the centuries.
While Pope Francis opted to remain at the Vatican during summer, Pope Leo XIV has revived this longstanding tradition.
Mass Scheduled for the Feast of the Assumption
After a day of rest, the pontiff will mark the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary on Friday, August 15, by celebrating Mass at the pontifical parish in Castel Gandolfo.
Outreach to the Poor in Albano
On Sunday, August 17, at 9:30 a.m. local time, Pope Leo XIV will visit the shrine of Santa Maria della Rotonda in Albano, a neighboring town to Castel Gandolfo.
He will celebrate Mass with individuals receiving aid from Caritas, the Catholic charity.
Angelus Prayer in Liberty Plaza
Following the Mass, the Holy Father will return to Castel Gandolfo to lead the Angelus prayer at noon in Liberty Plaza.
Lunch with Low-Income Families
According to the Diocese of Albano, the pontiff will then share lunch with 100 low-income individuals at Borgo Laudato Si’.
This ecological and social initiative was inspired by Pope Francis’ 2015 encyclical Laudato Si’.
Return to the Vatican
Later in the afternoon on Sunday, August 17, Pope Leo XIV will return to the Vatican.
David Awoyode