A Vatican spokesperson, Matteo Bruni, announced that Pope Leo will officially take residence in the Apostolic Palace on Saturday. This historic move marks a significant change, as the palace has remained empty since 2013 when the previous pope, Francis, opted for a simpler lifestyle by residing in the Vatican guesthouse 'Domus Sanctae Marthae' instead of the lavish papal apartments. Pope Francis's decision to stay in the guesthouse was intended to highlight a humble lifestyle and to avoid the isolation that could come with living in the more ornate and private papal residence.

The Apostolic Palace, which offers stunning views of St. Peter's Square, has been renovated for several months to resolve issues like mold, water damage, and outdated plumbing and electrical systems that plagued the long-vacant apartments. The upgrades were necessary to ensure a suitable living space for Pope Leo and his closest collaborators. This marks a shift back to tradition, as previous popes historically resided in these apartments, and it signals a potential change in papal lifestyle now that Pope Leo is in charge.

The renovations and the upcoming move underline the Vatican's efforts to restore the grandeur associated with the papacy while also responding to the modern sensibilities promoted by Pope Francis. Pope Leo's assumptions of the Apostolic Palace could represent a departure from the more austere practices of his predecessor, potentially impacting how the Catholic Church is perceived during his papacy.