Summer Time at the Vatican

(02 July 08 -RV)Pope Benedict will remain in his summer residence in Castel Gandolfo until he leaves for Australia for World Youth Day on July 12th.

The summer residence, located 30 kilometre southeast of Rome, has been used off and on by the Popes since the late 16th century.

The modern city occupies the site of ancient Alba Longa, capital of the Latin League.

It became the official summer residence after the Lateran treaties were signed in 1929. The properties also house the Vatican observatory.

The Pope will return to the villa after his return from Australia, before heading to the Italian Alps for his vacation, which occurs from July 28th until August 11th.

On Aug. 3 and Aug. 10, the pope will recite the Angelus with the public in front of the cathedral in Bressanone.

Wednesday general audiences will begin again Aug. 13.

The pope will travel again Sept. 12-15, visiting Paris and Lourdes in France to mark the 150th anniversary of the Marian apparitions to St. Bernadette at Lourdes.