Pope Opens His Gardens to Public

Pope Francis has decreed that the gardens of the Papal summer residence will be opened for the public to enjoy.

The gardens at Castel Gandolfo include ornamental gardens, terraces with views of the sea, the remains of an imperial Roman villa built by Emperor Domitian and a small farm that supplies the papal dining table.

Pope Francis has called out to his bishops and priests to reach out to ordinary people, and this is seen as a move that will engage followers.

Located 20 miles outside of the Rome, the gardens will be open from this week, and will cost £22 to visit, with tickets including guided tours in English, Italian and other languages.

The tradition of popes escaping the stifling summer heat of Rome was established by Pope Clement VII in the 16th century.

 

Image courtesy of NicomTours