History of Castel Gandolfo in Timeline

Castel Gandolfo is a scenic town in Lazio, Italy, situated in the Alban Hills, roughly 25 km southeast of Rome. Overlooking Lake Albano, it is celebrated as one of Italy's most beautiful towns and is known locally as Castello. With a population around 8,900, the hilltop town offers panoramic views and is a notable destination within the Castelli Romani area.

January 22, 1944: Refugees Arrive at Castel Gandolfo

On January 22, 1944, the first of 12,000 refugees began arriving at Castel Gandolfo, seeking shelter during World War II.

1960: XVII Olympiad Held in Rome

For the 1960 XVII Olympiad held in Rome, the Italian Olympic Committee built the Olympic Stadium and the Federal Center for Canoeing and Kayaking on Lake Albano.

1960: Lake Albano Used for Olympic Competitions

Since 1960, Lake Albano has been used for Olympic competitions for the sport of canoeing.

1966: Climate Classification Zone D

In 1966, Castel Gandolfo's climate was classified as Zone D, 1966 GR / G.

1984: Regional Park of Castelli Romani Formed

In 1984, the town of Castel Gandolfo was included and protected by the Regional Park of Castelli Romani.

2005: Pope Benedict

In 2005, Pope Benedict began his papacy (2005-2013) and loved Castel Gandolfo so much he briefly retired there after leaving the papacy.

2005: Amateur Football Club Formed

Since 2005, Castel Gandolfo has had an amateur football club at Oratory Parish St. Thomas of Villanova.

2005: Master Line Canoeing Sports Association Active

Since 2005, the Master Line Canoeing Sports Association has been active, promoting the sport of canoeing in Castel Gandolfo.

2009: Senior Men's Team Formed

In 2009, a senior men's football team was formed in Castel Gandolfo.

2010: Senior Men's Team Plays in Regional Championship

In 2010, the senior men's football team from Castel Gandolfo played in the regional championship of the C series (season 2009/2010).

2013: Pope Francis

In 2013, Pope Francis began his papacy (2013-2025), rarely went with a gap of nearly 12 years of no visits to Castel Gandolfo, however he did open the pontifical palace and gardens to the public for the first time, increasing tourism to the town.

2024: Catholic Institute of Technology Opens

In 2024, the Catholic Institute of Technology opened, offering bachelor's degrees in science and engineering.

July 6, 2025: Pope Leo XIV Vacation

On July 6, 2025, Pope Leo XIV will begin a six-week vacation in Castel Gandolfo, resuming the tradition of the location being used as the pope's retreat and summer home. He will be staying at the Castel Gandolfo's Villa Barberini, while the Apostolic Palace remains a museum.