Pope Leo XIV to Live in Vatican Apostolic Palace
VATICAN CITY — Pope Leo XIV is set to live in the Vatican Apostolic Palace, marking a return to tradition after Pope Francis chose to reside elsewhere. Several Vatican officials confirmed that the new pope will occupy the historic papal apartments located on the palace’s top floor.
The Vatican Apostolic Palace includes about ten rooms, such as a bedroom, private library, study, dining area, kitchen, and chapel. Currently, renovations are underway to update the facilities, including modernizing bathrooms and addressing dampness in the walls. A senior Vatican official, speaking anonymously, said Pope Leo XIV is expected to move in shortly after his inaugural Mass on Sunday.
Security and Tradition in the Vatican Apostolic Palace
Another official noted that it would be easier to provide security for the new pope within the palace compared to the Vatican hotel where Pope Francis lived. The Vatican spokesperson declined to comment on Leo’s residence when questioned.
Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Prevost and the first U.S. pope, was elected on May 8 after a brief conclave of cardinals. At present, he is living in an apartment near St. Peter’s, within the building that houses the Vatican’s doctrinal office.
Historic Shift in Papal Residence
Francis, who served the Church for 12 years before passing away on April 21, was the first pope since 1870 not to reside in the Vatican Apostolic Palace. Instead, he chose to live in the Vatican’s Santa Marta hotel, a simpler facility near the city-state’s southern wall that also houses visiting priests and guests.
Preferring a more communal setting for his psychological well-being, Francis avoided the grandiosity of the palace but continued to use it for official meetings and delivered his weekly Sunday prayers from its windows.
Vacancy and Renovation of the Vatican Apostolic Palace
The Apostolic Palace has remained unoccupied since February 2013 when Pope Benedict XVI moved out after his resignation. Now, the palace is undergoing essential renovations to prepare for its new occupant. Italian media reports mention updates that will modernize the bathrooms and fix moisture issues in the walls.
With these changes, Pope Leo XIV will reestablish the tradition of living in the Vatican Apostolic Palace, blending the history of the papacy with modern needs and security considerations.
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