Pope Francis is defying tradition once again through an opening of 'Apostolic Palace of Castel Gandolfo' for visitors. People fell in love with the Argentine's affection of the poor yet he still captures awe with his contemporary wisdom.
It is undeniable that Francis' heart is for the commonality, Economic Times said, shrugging off the trappings of papacy traditions came from the start of his leadership such as moving into the papal apartment instead of living in a hotel inside the state.
The Castel Gandolfo Palace has been the home of 33 popes prior to the Argentine, it became a summer residence and vacation retreat. It is located at 25 kilometers outside of Rome on Lake Albano
Tourists will be able to access the twenty never before seen rooms: study, chapel, and bedrooms. Yahoo News described the history of the residence entails, especially the bedroom where more than 15 of the papacy slept.
The beds hold the memory of the Second World War; the 55-hectare land was opened to refugees in the past----children were born there.
Osvaldo Gianoli, director of the pontifical villas also shared in Yahoo News, "Here, the grand events of history mix with personal histories," he said.
In 2014, Pope Francis opened the estate's garden to the public and Pope Benedicts's organic farm includes the tour. CNN quoted Barbaglio."It is a decision that is permanent until the Pontiff wants it to remain as such. This means a future pope can decide to take back the residence, making it private again."
How to Book a Tour:
Tours of the Apostolic Palace can be booked via the Vatican Museums website. Tickets are 10 euros (USD 10.99) per adult.
