Photos Reveal the Pope’s Apartments at the Apostolic Palace

The significance of this unsealing ceremony raises questions about where Pope Leo will ultimately reside: within these historic walls or in a more humble dwelling.

Vibrant mural maps adorn the corridor leading to the apartments, known as the Third Loggia.

While spacious, some areas appear less ornate compared to other sections of the Apostolic Palace.

In 2004, a photographer captured an image of Pope John Paul II in thoughtful prayer in this sacred space.

This historic library has hosted numerous world leaders, emphasizing the pope’s role in global diplomacy.

These virtual gatherings during the pandemic created a unique opportunity for global followers to connect with the pope.

Comprising approximately a dozen rooms, the apartments include a library, chapel, sitting room, study, bedroom, and even a medical clinic, as detailed by Getty. These rooms surround the historic Courtyard of Sixtus V.

In 1903, Pope Pius X broke ground by residing in the apartments—a tradition that many expected was to be upheld by Pope Francis, who surprised many by choosing to live in Casa Santa Marta instead.

However, Pope Leo XIV recently expressed a view resonating with Pope Francis’ humility, stating that a *”bishop is not supposed to be a little prince sitting in his kingdom… rather, he’s called to be humble, to walk with the people he serves.”* This is a sentiment that echoes through the corridors of the Apostolic Palace.