Pope Leo XIV is expected to live in the Vatican’s Apostolic Palace, contrary to his predecessor Pope Francis who chose a hotel instead. The papal apartments, located on the top floor of the 16th-century building, feature 10 rooms including a bedroom, private library, and chapel.
The move comes after renovation works are underway to modernize the palace’s bathrooms and address damp issues in the walls. Vatican officials believe it would be easier to provide security for the new pope at the palace rather than at the hotel facility where Francis lived.
Leo, the first US-born pope, was elected on May 8 after a short conclave of cardinals. He currently resides in an apartment near the Vatican’s doctrinal office before moving into the palace.
Source: https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/moving-back-pope-leo-expected-live-vaticans-apostolic-palace-2025-05-16