Escape the heat in Rome in this lakeside town where popes have holidayed for centuries. View on euronews

Pope Leo’s visit to the hilltop town after 12 years has revived a 400-year-long tradition, followed by popes dating back to Pope Urban VIII in the 17th century. Here is what to know

Eventually the Apostolic Camera seized the property from the Savelli family due to financial issues, and in 1604 Castel Gandolfo was incorporated into the Holy See’s assets. The history of the papal summer residence The ancient villa was transformed into a summer residence by order of Pope Urban VIII, born Maffeo Vincenzo Barberini.