The pope opened his apostolic palace in Castel Gandolfo to the public in October in a bid to help the town's economy stay afloat, as he has never stayed there himself.
The pope opened his Apostolic Palace in Castel Gandolfo to the public in October in a bid to help the town's economy stay afloat, as he has never stayed there himself.
The leader of the Catholic Church dislikes the sprawling mansion, according to Reuters, and considers it too extravagant. He has visited Castel Gandolfo three times, but never stayed overnight.
The palace was built in the 17th century for Pope Urban VIII. Since then, around 15 popes have used it for their summer holidays.
The pope's bedroom is the main attraction, and it has a surprising history - it was used as a delivery room for refugees during the Second World War. Despite the 266 popes throughout history taking a vow of celibacy, around 40 children have been born in the bedroom.
Take a tour of the papal palace.