Italy’s hidden gem is nested in the lush Alban Hills, only 25 short kilometers from Rome. Here lies Castel Gandolfo – a medieval village boasting just as much history as it does beauty. Should you choose to summer there, you’ll find yourself in holy company.
Since the 16th century, Catholic popes have spent their summers in the papal Castel Gandolfo residence, basking in Italian nature and culture away from the hustle and bustle of Vatican City.
This guide will discuss the popes’ summer sanctuary in Castel Gandolfo, the picturesque village’s rich history, what it has to offer to visitors, and how best to spend a day there on your next trip to Italy.
Castel Gandolfo: History
With its fertile soil and lush landscape, it’s unsurprising that Castel Gandolfo used to be a vital agricultural center during the Roman empire, and until the 10th century, was a self-standing agricultural society.
Later on, the Gandolfi family (whom the village is named after) took over the land and maintained control over it for several centuries. However, in 1596 the land was eventually seized by the Apostolic Chamber after the family failed to pay back their massive debts. Eight years later, Pope Clement VII started using the Castel Gandolfo palace as his summer residency, starting a centuries-old tradition among the papacy.
Today, the Castel Gandolfo palace continues to host pontiffs during their time off, and the late Pope John II was said to have particularly enjoyed his time there.
Is Castel Gandolfo in Vatican City?
No, Castel Gandolfo is not in Vatican City.
The independent city-state of the Vatican is found within Rome’s historic center. Meanwhile, Castel Gandolfo is about 25 kilometers outside of Rome.
So, while Castel Gandolfo is frequently visited by the Vatican’s most important members, it’s not located inside Vatican City.
Castel Gandolfo today
Castel Gandolfo today is still as scenic as it was during the Roman Empire, and thousands of tourists and locals alike visit it each year. From touring the papal summer residence to taking a dip in lake Albano, a visit to Castel Gandolfo is sure to invigorate the body and calm the soul.
Who lives in Castel Gandolfo?
The village of Castel Gandolfo has several permanent residents in addition to its seasonal ones. Meanwhile, the palace of Castel Gandolfo is the papal summer home, though the pope doesn’t live there full time.
Does Pope Francis go to Castel Gandolfo?
While Pope Francis has visited Castel Gandolfo on multiple occasions, he has strayed from the status quo by choosing to spend his summers at the Vatican instead. He then decided to allow the public to tour the papal palace, giving the world a glimpse into the popes’ sanctuary.
Where is the pope’s summer home in Italy?
The pope’s Italian summer home is traditionally Castel Gandolfo, and has been for the past 500 years. That said, the current Pope Francis chooses to summer in the Vatican.
Is Castel Gandolfo worth visiting?
While Castel Gandolfo is easily accessible from Rome by train or car, you may be asking yourself if it’s worth taking time out of your trip to visit this medieval village.
Yes, Castel Gandolfo has many stun-worthy and unique attractions, including the:
- Apostolic Palace: Complete with stunning Renaissance interiors and breathtaking frescoes, the Apostolic Palace is a glimpse into the papacy’s most intimate moments. Here, you can visit the papal apartments, the pope’s private chapel, and the Gallery of Papal Portraits. Remember, this is not the pope’s home, but where he summers.
- Pontifical Gardens: Spanning 55 hectares and featuring meticulously crafted mazes, scenic statues, and a one-of-a-kind view of Lake Albano, the Pontifical Gardens are truly a sight to behold.
- Civic Museum: With its collection of archaeological findings and unique artwork, this museum is a one-stop-shop for Castel Gandolfo’s history. Learn how this ancient village came to be and what makes it so special to the papacy and Italian residents.
Castel Gandolfo opening hours and tickets
While many incredible Italian experiences are free, purchasing the Castel Gandolfo papal palace tickets is not. We recommend booking these tickets at least a few days in advance since visiting this incredible feat of Renaissance architecture is a popular experience among tourists and locals alike.
The pope’s Castel Gandolfo residence is open to the public on the following days:
- Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 2:00 pm
- Saturday, 8:30 am to 5:30 pm
The papal palace is closed to the public on Sundays, though you’re free to roam the Castel Gandolfo village and take a dip in Lake Albano.
How to get to Castel Gandolfo?
Castel Gandolfo is just far enough away from Rome to escape the chaotic crowds but close enough that it’s easily accessible by a number of transport routes. Whether you want to make your way to the pope’s summer residence via train, bus, or car, you’ll arrive in the pontifical gardens in under an hour.
- Train: From either Termini or Tuscolana station, take the Rome to Albano train. The trip is around 40 minutes and as the train is regional, the ticket is very modestly priced.
- Bus: Head to Anagnina station (on metro line A), and take the Cotral bus towards Castel Gandolfo. The ticket is only a few euros and the bus ride will last about 50 minutes.
- Car: Go on the Via Appia Nuova street and head towards Albano Laziale. From here, follow the signs for Castel Gandolfo. You should arrive in around 40 minutes.
While these modes of transportation are simple enough, it can be frustrating trying to navigate Rome’s public transport systems or car rental services. So, booking a tour where your transportation, tickets, and your guide are all taken care of is a simple solution to making your day trip to Castel Gandolfo stress-free.
Walks Inside Rome will organize every aspect of your visit to the papal palace and provide you with an expert English-speaking guide to give you exclusive insights into the Castel Gandolfo palace and Pontifical Gardens.
