Pope Francis is set to return to Castel Gandolfo, Italy, for the summer, ending a four-century tradition of popes seeking respite from the Roman heat. For most of the past 400 years, popes have traditionally departed the capital to escape the oppressive summer temperatures, with Castel Gandolfo serving as a popular summer retreat. The decision to return to the town marks a shift from his previous practice of avoiding the heat, which had led to a noticeable decline in tourist activity and economic opportunities for the local community.
Residents of Castel Gandolfo, including bar owners and local business proprietors, have expressed optimism about the pope’s return. The town’s main square, a hub of activity, has welcomed the news with enthusiasm, with one bar owner noting that the pope’s planned visit has “given the town a spark.” The renewed interest has the potential to revitalize the local economy, which had struggled since the pope’s departure. This development is seen as a positive sign for the town’s tourism industry and overall economic vitality.
As the pope prepares to return to Castel Gandolfo, the town is expected to experience a surge in visitors, both from within Italy and abroad. The visit is not only a significant event for the local community but also a symbol of the pope’s continued engagement with the region. With the summer season approaching, the anticipated influx of visitors could provide a welcome boost to the town’s economy, helping to revitalize a community that had been affected by the pope’s absence.