Pope Leo XIV has resumed the centuries-old tradition of taking a summer vacation at Castel Gandolfo, the papal summer residence located about 25 kilometers south of Rome on the shores of Lake Albano. He arrived at the villa on Sunday, July 6, 2025, and will stay until July 20 for a two-week break, marking the first papal summer holiday at this location in 12 years. This tradition was notably interrupted during the 12-year pontificate of Pope Francis, who chose not to take a summer vacation. Pope Leo XIV's return to Castel Gandolfo has been welcomed by local residents and pilgrims, who anticipate a boost in tourism and economic activity. The pope made a brief visit to inspect ongoing works at the papal residence before beginning his holiday. His decision to revive this tradition is seen as part of his broader efforts to rebuild unity and bolster tradition within the Catholic Church after his predecessor's unorthodox papacy. The summer retreat at Castel Gandolfo has hosted popes for more than 400 years, and Pope Leo XIV is the 16th pontiff to take holidays there. The pope's stay at Villa Barberini is described as a period of rest to restore both body and spirit.