On the 12th September 2015, the Papal Palace of Castelgandolfo at Lake Albano will open to the public as a museum. For centuries, the Palace served as the summer retreat for the Popes to escape from the oppressive heat of Rome. Pope Francis, however, says he is too busy to take prolonged holidays and the Palace has not been opened since he came to occupy the Throne of Peter.
The second floor will display the gifts given to the popes in the summer residence from the second half of the '600 on and include precious paintings and sacred objects.
The opening of the Museum follows other recent initiatives concerning the Palace. The splendid Barberini gardens are now open daily (except Sundays) for guided tours. The Vatican farm, which produces foodstuffs for the Holy See, can also be visited.
Info and bookings. mv.vatican.va/1
