Pope Leo XIV Set to Reside in Apostolic Palace, says Vatican

Pope Leo XIV is expected to take up residence in the Vatican’s historic Apostolic Palace—reviving a long-standing tradition that was notably set aside by his predecessor, the late Pope Francis.

According to several Vatican officials, the newly elected pontiff will move into the palatial top-floor apartment overlooking St. Peter’s Square, a marked departure from Francis’ preference for modest accommodations.

The Apostolic Palace, a grand 16th-century structure, houses the papal apartments which include roughly ten rooms: a bedroom, private library and study, dining room, kitchen, and a private chapel.

Renovations are currently underway to prepare the space for Pope Leo’s arrival, and he is expected to move in following his inaugural Mass on Sunday, a senior Vatican source told Reuters.

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Unlike Pope Francis—who famously declined the lavish papal quarters in favor of a modest suite at the Vatican’s Santa Marta guesthouse—Leo XIV appears set to embrace the traditional setting. Vatican insiders say that beyond symbolism, the decision is also practical.

Security officials reportedly believe the Apostolic Palace offers a more manageable and secure environment for the new pope compared to the guesthouse setup.

Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Prevost, made history on May 8 as the first American pope, emerging as pontiff after a brief conclave. Until now, he has continued residing in his old apartment at the Vatican’s doctrinal office near St. Peter’s Basilica.

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His upcoming move into the Apostolic Palace signals not just a return to tradition, but also potentially a shift in papal tone and leadership style.

While Pope Francis often championed simplicity and humility through personal choices like his living arrangements, Pope Leo XIV may choose to engage with the papacy’s historical grandeur while maintaining a modern and pastoral approach.

As Leo XIV begins this new chapter, all eyes will be on how his leadership blends continuity with change—both in his symbolic decisions and the substance of his papacy.