Pope to visit Italian towns in September

(July 20, 2009) Pope Benedict XVI’s will make a pastoral visit to the Italian towns of Viterbo and Bagnoregio on September 6. Located some 62 miles northeast of Rome, Viterbo is known as the “City of Popes,” since it served as the see of the Successor of Peter for several decades during the 13th century. Various conclaves were held there, including the one that elected Pope Gregory X, who was later beatified. Among his appointments at Viterbo is an open-air Mass, a private visit to the Palace of the Popes and another visit the tomb of St. Rose, patroness of the city. Before returning to the papal summer residence of Castelgandolfo near Rome, Pope Benedict will pay a short visit to Bagnoregio, some 28 km north of Viterbo. His programme there includes a stop to pray at the relics of 13^th century philosopher, St. Bonaventure, and meeting the local residents in the city's main square. Later in September, the Pope will make a three-day visit to Prague, the Czech Republic.