Castel Gandolfo has long held a special place for Poles — primarily due to the presence of Saint John Paul II, but also because of earlier historical and spiritual links with Poland. These connections are recalled by Fr. Tadeusz Rozmus SDB, a parish priest of Castel Gandolfo.
According to Fr. Rozmus, Castel Gandolfo has “great traditions linked, among others, to the presence of Saint John Paul II,” who repeatedly stayed there and spent holidays in the town. “People very often recall him, especially when speaking about Christmas and his presence here,” the priest notes.
He adds that Castel Gandolfo and the wider Castelli Romani area attract residents of Rome and its surroundings seeking a distinct atmosphere, particularly during the holiday season. “Castelli Romani has its own unique climate,” he says.
In recent months, the regular presence of Pope Leo has also shaped local life. As Fr. Rozmus explains, the Pope “arrives every week on Monday evening and leaves on Tuesday evening,” visiting various places, including cultural events at the Pontifical School of Saint Paul VI. Last week, the parish, together with a local orchestra and the mayor, offered greetings to the Pope, thanking him for enriching the experience of the holiday season in Castelli Romani.
Castel Gandolfo’s ties with Poland also have a historical and symbolic dimension. The papal chapel in the Apostolic Palace houses an image of Our Lady of Częstochowa. References to the 1920 Polish–Bolshevik War, associated with Fr. Ignacy Skorupka, are also present, reflecting the experiences of Achille Ratti — later Pope Pius XI — who served as Apostolic Nuncio to Poland. These elements are complemented by the lasting memory of Saint John Paul II’s numerous stays in Castel Gandolfo.
Photo: fr. Paweł Rytel-Andrianik / Family News Service
Family News Service