Pope's Summer Estate and Private Apartment

You’ll board your coach at Civitavecchiaand make your way through the scenic Lazian countryside to this ancient town. Castel Gandolfo is thought to date back as far as 37 centuries. In the early 12th century, the Gandolfo family bought the land and constructed an impressive palace on top of the 1st century ruins of a grand villa belonging to Roman Emperor Domitian. the area became the property of the Gandolfi family who built a palace atop the 1st century ruins of Roman Emperor Domitian’s grand villa. The palace later became the Papal summer home when, in 1626, Pope Urban VIII took residence.
Upon arrival at the villa, you will leave your bus and take the small, comfortable eco-friendly vehicle that will take you to the Pontifical Villas.Your visit will be enriched by your guides live commentary, the guide will be at disposal to answer your questions and satisfy your curiosity.
After the visit of the Pontifical Villas, follow your guide to the Apostolic Palace (the Pope’s Residence) where you’ll have the opportunity to enter the Pope’s Private Apartment which was opened to the public in 2016.
After your visit of the Pope’s Palace, enjoy some free time and a snack at the quaint village of Castel Gandolfo where you can admire great views of lake Albano, the deepest lake in Italy.
Afterwards, you will re-board your bus and head to Rome, the eternal city. Once in Rome, a panoramic drive will show you Rome’s renowned landmarks, including St. Angel Castle, Circus Maximus, Piazza Venezia and the Colosseum where you’ll have the chance to stop for a photo opportunity before your return to the ship.