Pope Leo XIV's Apartment: First Look Inside the New Vatican Quarters
It's done: Pope Leo XIV has spent his first night in the new apartment. For days, the Vatican has been a hive of activity—clearing out, hauling boxes, and getting the last pieces of furniture into place. Now that the move is complete, it's not just the Vatican City State eagerly eyeing the walls where the Holy Father will live and work from now on. Of course, we here in New Zealand are also paying close attention – after all, the Pope is a significant figure for many believers. So, settle in, and let me take you behind those walls to share what we're hearing about the Pope Leo XIV apartment so far.
A first Pope Leo XIV apartment review: What's different from Francis?
Word has it that Leo XIV has made a few changes. Of course, everyone has their own taste. Those who've visited the papal quarters in recent years might remember the clean, almost minimalist style of Benedict XVI and later Francis. Leo XIV is said to be bringing in a bit more colour – but don't worry, it won't be flashy. Apparently, the Pope Leo XIV apartment feels brighter, almost cosy. Apparently, he's put up a few icons from his homeland and brought along an old leather armchair. Sounds like a place where you could actually feel at home.
The ultimate Pope Leo XIV apartment guide: Here's how it's laid out
If you're picturing the Pope living in a massive 50-room palace, sorry to burst your bubble. The private quarters in the Apostolic Palace are surprisingly compact. I managed to get a look at the floor plan for you – just the rough layout, obviously, the exact plans are strictly under wraps. But this gives you a pretty good idea:
- The private chapel: This is where the Pope celebrates morning mass with a small group. It's simply done, with a beautiful old wooden cross and room for maybe ten people.
- The study: The most important room for the man leading the Church. A large desk, a phone, a laptop (yep, the Vatican's gone digital!), and a window overlooking St. Peter's Square – perfect for gazing out while deep in thought.
- The bedroom: Modest – a single bed, a bedside table, a crucifix on the wall. No luxury, just a place to retreat.
- The small lounge: This is where the Pope occasionally receives guests who aren't on the official schedule. A few armchairs, a standing lamp, bookshelves – rumour has it there's even a TV.
- The library: Leo XIV is known to be well-read, so a decent collection is a must. Most volumes are theological works, but apparently, there are a few crime novels mixed in for relaxation.
And how to use the Pope Leo XIV apartment? A peek into daily life
Sounds a bit odd, but it's not that far-fetched: obviously, the apartment isn't a hotel you can book. But really, the question "how to use" means: what's it like living there? What does the Pope actually do all day within those four walls? Well, the daily routine is pretty structured. After morning mass in the private chapel, he has breakfast alone or with his secretaries. Then it's off to the study – preparing for audiences, reading documents, signing papers. A short break at midday, often a simple lunch. Afternoon means more work, sometimes a walk in the Vatican Gardens. Evenings are back in the apartment, evening prayers, maybe reading a chapter, then an early night. Sounds almost like a normal life – just with a slightly different job.
What I'm pleased about: The Pope Leo XIV apartment seems to be to his liking. The first leaked photos show a smile on his face as he entered the rooms. And when the Pope's happy in his space, that's got to be good for the whole Church, I reckon. Who knows, maybe at the next general audience we'll catch a quick glimpse through the window – a guy can dream, right?