By Courtney Mares
Rome Newsroom, Jan 11, 2025 / 06:00 am
A new tour of the Vatican Gardens at the pope’s summer palace in Castel Gandolfo is opening in the spring for jubilee pilgrims who wish to escape the crowds in Rome for a day and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of God’s creation.
On the wooded slopes of the Alban Hills, overlooking the blue waters of a small volcanic crater lake, the papal residence and gardens at Castel Gandolfo was a favorite summer retreat for popes for centuries.
With the Church’s 2025 Jubilee, these papal gardens will turn a new chapter as the setting for one of Pope Francis’ most ambitious ecological projects.
In the spring, the Vatican will open a new tour of the gardens as part of the Borgo Laudato Si’ initiative, a project years in the making that aims to put the principles for integral development outlined in the pope’s environmental encyclical Laudato Si’ into practice.
Welcome to the Vatican Gardens: A Hidden Gem of Tranquility
When it comes to summer vacation, Pope Francis believes in sharing the beauty and wonder of the Vatican Gardens with humanity. Donatella Parisi, the initiative’s spokesperson, recently shared this sentiment during a preview tour of the gardens.
Visitors to the Vatican Gardens will not only experience the serene surroundings but will also have the chance to taste the organic produce from Borgo Laudato Si’s farm. Olive oil, wine, honey, herbal teas, and more will be harvested from the estate’s grounds, providing a true farm-to-table experience.
Parisi also mentioned that the farm will serve as an educational experience, where pilgrims can learn about organic farming practices and sustainability. Everything grown on the farm will be shared with visitors during the Jubilee Year.
Steeped in history, the Vatican Gardens have been a place of tranquility for centuries. The ruins of Roman Emperor Domitian’s villa, built on the site in A.D. 81–96, are included in the tour, offering a glimpse into the past.
Welcome to the Vatican Gardens at Castel Gandolfo, where history and nature intertwine to create a truly enchanting experience. According to the Vatican, both Emperor Hadrian and Marcus Aurelius have graced this ancient villa with their presence, adding to the rich tapestry of stories that abound in this sacred place.
The roots of this villa go back to Roman Emperor Domitian (A.D. 81–96), who first built a lavish country retreat on this site. Today, the ruins of his villa are included in the tour of the Vatican Gardens, offering a glimpse into the opulent past of this location. The property later became the summer residence of the popes in the 1600s, with Pope Urban VIII (1623–1644) being the first pope to enjoy his summer holiday in the palace.
One of the highlights of the Vatican Gardens is the collection of over 3,000 plants from 300 species, including a majestic 700-year-old oak tree. Meticulously maintained hedges reflect centuries of papal stewardship, creating a serene and picturesque landscape that invites contemplation and reflection.
To visit the Vatican Gardens at Castel Gandolfo, one can take a 45-minute train ride south from Rome to the Borgo Laudato Si’ property. This enchanting location spans over 86 acres of gardens and 49 acres of agricultural land, offering a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.
As we celebrate the 10th anniversary of the publication of Laudato Si’ and the 800th anniversary of St. Francis of Assisi’s “Canticle of the Sun,” the opening of this new tour is a testament to the enduring connection between humanity and nature. Signs placed throughout the gardens encourage moments of contemplation of both creation and Creator, inviting visitors to pause and appreciate the beauty that surrounds them.
Come and explore the Vatican Gardens at Castel Gandolfo, where history, spirituality, and nature converge to create an unforgettable experience. Book your tour today and immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of this sacred place.
Source link
