Pope Leo XIV arrived at Castel Gandolfo for a period of rest. The Pontiff arrived in the center on the outskirts of Rome shortly before 5 p.m., entering on foot and greeting the waiting faithful with cheers and choruses of “Long live the Pope”. After reaching Villa Barberini, Leo XIV looked out from the terrace for a brief greeting to the crowd, accompanied by secretary Fr. Edgar and Father Leonardo Sapienza. “It is a pleasure to be here,” he said, thanking everyone for the welcome and explaining that he was happy to be able to meet people and continue working “in such a beautiful place”. Inside the villa, the Pope met with the mayor of Castel Gandolfo, Alberto De Angelis, the bishop of Albano Monsignor Vincenzo Viva, the parish priest, Sister Raffaella Petrini, president of the governorate, and the director of the Pontifical Villas. In the square, along with the Vatican flag, the flags of Italy, Europe and the United States were also displayed. Leo XIV will remain at Castel Gandolfo until July 20, also devoting himself to some dossiers. Next Sunday he will celebrate Mass at St. Thomas Church and recite the Angelus in Freedom Square. With this stay, Leo XIV becomes the 16th pope to choose Castel Gandolfo as his summer residence, a tradition begun in the 17th century and interrupted by his predecessor, Pope Francis.