Vatican Opens New Tour of Gardens at Castel Gandolfo for Pilgrims to Experience Ecological Education and Natural Beauty in Spring 2025

This spring, a fresh and immersive experience is waiting for jubilee pilgrims looking to escape the busy streets of Rome.

The Vatican Gardens at the pope’s historic summer retreat in Castel Gandolfo will be opening to visitors in a new way, inviting people to experience the tranquil beauty of God’s creation while learning about the Church’s environmental initiatives.

A Retreat with a Rich History

Nestled in the Alban Hills, overlooking a small volcanic crater lake, Castel Gandolfo has long been a beloved getaway for popes, offering serenity amidst lush greenery.

The gardens and surrounding area have seen centuries of papal stewardship, with a rich history dating back to Roman Emperor Domitian, who built the first villa on the site.

Since the 1600s, it has served as the summer residence for many popes, including the current pope, who will now open this peaceful retreat for an even greater purpose.

Borgo Laudato Si’ and Ecological Transformation

In line with Pope Francis’ environmental vision, the Vatican Gardens are undergoing an exciting transformation as part of the Borgo Laudato Si’ project.

This initiative, which ties into the Church’s 2025 Jubilee celebrations, aims to put the principles of the pope’s encyclical Laudato Si’ into practice.

Pilgrims visiting in the spring will not only get to witness the beauty of the gardens but also engage in ecological learning.

From organic farming to sustainable practices, this initiative is set to showcase the Church’s commitment to preserving the environment.

Sustainable Agriculture and Organic Produce

Visitors to the gardens will also get the chance to explore and taste the produce grown in the Borgo Laudato Si’ organic farm.

The estate, home to 1,400 olive trees, a vineyard, and other sustainable agricultural projects, offers a hands-on experience with food production.

Pilgrims will be able to sample olive oil, wine, honey, herbal teas, and dairy products made from organic practices.

The farm will serve as an educational space, allowing visitors to learn about eco-friendly farming techniques and the importance of sustainability.

A Place for Reflection and Education

The Vatican Gardens have always been a space for reflection, with natural beauty offering moments of tranquility.

New additions will further encourage reflection, with signs placed throughout the gardens to prompt visitors to meditate on themes like water, silence, and the beauty of creation.

These moments of contemplation align with the broader goal of the Laudato Si’ project—teaching ecological and ethical values in a natural, immersive setting.

Commitment to Social Justice and Job Training

In addition to promoting ecological education, the project is deeply rooted in Pope Francis’ commitment to social justice.

The Borgo Laudato Si’ initiative provides job training and support for marginalized groups, such as refugees, former prisoners, and people with disabilities.

This initiative highlights the Church’s broader vision of integral development, ensuring that both the environment and vulnerable communities are cared for.

Educational Opportunities for Future Generations

The Borgo Laudato Si’ center, now under the leadership of Father Manuel Dorantes, also offers educational opportunities for students and children.

Programs like summer schools, workshops, and ecological awareness campaigns aim to instill in younger generations a sense of responsibility towards the planet.

Through these programs, the Church hopes to create tangible examples of its commitment to both environmental care and human development.

A Model for the Future

Cardinal Fabio Baggio, who oversees the project, views the gardens as a model for future initiatives.

The aim is for the beauty of the gardens to provide a natural setting for “integral ecology” that welcomes all people of goodwill to participate in the care of creation.

With the Vatican Gardens’ new tour offering an enriching experience, the gardens will serve as a cornerstone of both spiritual and ecological education for years to come.