Thousands gather as Pope Leo leads inaugural Angelus prayer.

Pope Leo Resurfaces Castel Gandolfo as Summer Retreat

Thousands gather on a hilltop Italian village near Rome to watch Pope Leo deliver his inaugural Angelus prayer from the previously dormant summer palace at Castel Gandolfo.

Reinvigorated Palatial Residence

• Leo arrived on July 6, initiating a two‑week sabbatical 20 kilometres southeast of Rome.
• The Vatican’s former chief, Pope Francis, opted for a Vatican‑seated summer break.
• Despite drizzle, crowds crowded the square, overlooking a lake and the new pope’s habit.

Angelus Tribute to Global Peace

Stood outside the Apostolic Palace gates, flanked by Swiss Guards in full dress, the pope opened with: “I am happy to be among you… and thank you all for your warm welcome.”

Following a mass at the Church of Saint Thomas of Villanova, he crossed the plaza amid cheers.

Stating, “Let us not forget to pray for peace and for all those who find themselves suffering because of war,” Leo underscored the universal call for global harmony.