Tradition Break in the Vatican: Leo XIV Moves into Shared Apartment in the Palace

A pope sharing his official residence with others has never happened before: Pope Leo XIV intends to live in the Apostolic Palace of the Vatican and not live there alone. Four close companions are to move into the approximately ten-room apartment with him, including his long-time personal secretary, Father Edgard Rimaycuna, a close confidant from his time in South America.

Community as a Principle

The unusual step is, according to observers, a conscious decision. Pope Leo belongs to the Augustinian Order, in which communal living plays a central role. The decision not to reside alone is intended to bring these values to the center of papal daily life. Even though he is returning to the traditional premises, Leo XIV wants to live there "not like a king," as a Vatican correspondent emphasized.

Return to the Palace – with a New Idea

The apartment on the third floor of the Apostolic Palace has been extensively renovated in recent months. The suite had been unused for years, leading to moisture damage. Since the death of Pope Francis in April, the apartment has been sealed and is now being prepared for Leo's move-in.

Different from His Predecessor Francis

Pope Francis deliberately renounced the papal apartments in 2013 and lived in the guesthouse Domus Sanctae Marthae – a sign of humility. Leo XIV, on the other hand, is returning to the palace, but does so in a consciously modern form. According to Italian media, the Vatican has not yet officially commented on the personnel choice, but the pope is said to already be in close contact with his companions.

Castel Gandolfo Also Back in Use

In addition to moving into the palace apartment, Leo XIV is also reviving another tradition: He is using the summer residence Castel Gandolfo as a retreat, after it was no longer officially used under Francis.

This article has been automatically translated, read the original article here.