The name comes from the Gandolfi family, medieval lords who built a castle on the site before it later became papal property. Over time, the name evolved into Castel Gandolfo, though it is sometimes also referred to as Castel Gondolfo.

No. For centuries, it remained a private papal retreat, inaccessible to outsiders. It was only in recent years, under Pope Francis, that the Apostolic Palace and gardens were opened and transformed into a museum and cultural destination.

Almost every pope from Urban VIII in the 17th century up until Benedict XVI used the palace as their summer residence. Pope Francis chose not to stay there, instead opening it to visitors as part of his initiative to make Vatican heritage more accessible.

Yes. The site sits on the remains of Emperor Domitian’s villa, a sprawling Roman complex with theatres, cryptoporticos, and gardens. Elements of these ruins are still visible in the Barberini Gardens today.

The entire papal estate at Castel Gandolfo covers about 55 hectares, including the palace itself, the Barberini Gardens, and parts of Domitian’s ancient villa.

Most visitors spend about 2–3 hours exploring the Apostolic Palace and Barberini Gardens. If you’d like to enjoy the historic town, its piazza, and the views over Lake Albano, plan for a half-day trip. A full day allows time for a leisurely lakeside walk or meal.