Elected during the Conclave on 8 May, the new Pontiff has taken the name Pope Leo XIV. Born Robert Francis Prevost, the American cardinal becomes the first North American to take the papal throne. After many years spent living in Peru, he now moves to the Vatican — but his choice of residence is anything but straightforward.
Where did Cardinal Prevost live before becoming Pope?
Before being elected Pope Leo XIV, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost held several high-ranking roles within the Roman Curia. Since 2023, he had been living in the Palace of the Holy Office.
Although the building is located just outside the Vatican walls, it is part of the Holy See’s extraterritorial area. As its name suggests, it houses the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith. Built in the 16th century, the palace bears the influence of several renowned architects — including Michelangelo Buonarroti, whose work also brought splendour to St Peter’s Basilica.
Where will Pope Leo XIV live?
The choice of papal residence has always captured the attention of both the faithful and observers alike, as it is not merely a practical decision. Since 1870 — the year of the Capture of Rome — the official residence of the Popes has been the Apostolic Palace, known for its architectural grandeur designed by Bramante.
At the beginning of his pontificate, Pope Francis opted to reside in Casa Santa Marta, where an entire floor was reserved for him. This choice reflected his desire for a simpler, more humble lifestyle and brought renewed attention to the building. Situated within the Vatican walls but separate from the Apostolic Palace, Casa Santa Marta continues to serve as accommodation for visiting cardinals, particularly during the Conclave, and remains an important residence within the Vatican.
Pope Leo XIV, however, has confirmed that he will reside in the Apostolic Palace, thus returning to the traditional papal quarters. The Apostolic Palace is located just above the colonnade of St Peter’s Square and includes the famous window from which the Angelus is traditionally delivered. This vast complex also houses the Vatican Museums, several government offices, private chapels, and the Vatican Library — amounting to over 1,000 rooms.
Where did Pope Leo XIV sleep after the Conclave?
One of the questions that most intrigued the faithful and observers immediately after the election was where Pope Leo XIV spent his first night as Pontiff.
According to some sources, after visiting the Palace of the Holy Office to greet those he had lived with in recent years, Leo XIV joined the cardinal electors for dinner at Casa Santa Marta.
The new Pope’s first engagements
The beginning of a pontificate is always filled with expectation and symbolism, and Pope Leo XIV’s first engagements will naturally follow established protocol. His first official act will be to greet the cardinals in the Sistine Chapel, followed—possibly—by an address to members of the media, as Pope Francis did.
Although he will not yet be formally installed, he is expected to lead the Angelus prayer in St Peter’s Square. The first major ceremony will be the inaugural Mass of the pontificate, likely to take place in the coming days. After that, he may also tour the square in the popemobile to greet the faithful.
Looking ahead, the new Pope will need to appoint his closest collaborators and select those who will lead the Curia’s Dicasteries. Also on the horizon are several key events from the Jubilee 2025 Calendar, including two significant appointments scheduled for May.
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