Pope Leo XIV begins his papacy surrounded by luxury, including a stunning cliffside retreat, bulletproof Mercedes, and a $520K gold ring.
Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, is about to step into the papacy in a manner that’s far from humble.
His inauguration begins a lavish lifestyle, in stark contrast to his modest upbringing and early life in suburban Chicago.
The new pope’s life is set to be defined by wealth, power, and symbols of opulence, thanks to the lavish gifts and privileges that come with the papacy.
Pope Leo XIV steps into luxurious life with $520K ring and bulletproof car after historic papal election
The $520,000 fisherman’s ring symbolizes authority.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Pope Leo XIV’s induction is the presentation of the Fisherman’s Ring, a 24-karat gold band with an estimated value of $520,000.
The ring, a longstanding tradition in the Catholic Church, is adorned with engravings of St. Peter the Apostle’s image.
It is an essential part of the papal inauguration ceremony, and it will be placed on the Pope’s finger as a symbol of his new role.
For Leo XIV, the ring symbolizes more than luxury—it marks his authority as spiritual leader of over a billion Catholics worldwide.
Pope Leo XIV receives opulent apartments and a clifftop retreat.
Following the ceremony, Pope Leo XIV will move into the Apostolic Palace, a residence traditionally reserved for the Pope.
This historic building, nestled in the heart of Rome, has long been a symbol of papal power.
But the new Pope will also have access to Castel Gandolfo, a sprawling 135-acre estate on a clifftop overlooking Lake Albano.
The villa has long been a retreat for popes seeking rest and solitude, but now it could become a permanent residence for Leo XIV.
The property’s stunning views and organic farm make it a dream vacation spot for any world leader.
It also includes a swimming pool, adding to the retreat’s grandeur.
A bulletproof Popemobile with luxury features
Another indulgence in Pope Leo XIV’s new life is the electric white Mercedes-Benz Popemobile.
This bulletproof car, valued at $500,000, was custom-built just last year and will be part of his transportation fleet.
The Popemobile ensures the Pope’s safety in crowds, offering a glimpse of the comfort and luxury associated with his elevated position.
The Popemobile has always been part of papal life.
However, its modern iteration reflects the increasing lavishness of the office, especially compared to past popes’ modest vehicles.
A Pope with humble origins and aspirations
Despite his wealth, Pope Leo XIV remains committed to his humble beginnings and the poor.
Born and raised in suburban Chicago, he spent much of his earlier life working with impoverished communities, including rural farmers in Peru.
This missionary work shaped much of his worldview, and he has long been an advocate for the poor.
However, the transition to the papacy marks a sharp contrast to the humble life he once led.
The luxurious gifts and properties he now inherits paint a very different picture of his future.
Pope Leo XIV is expected to continue the legacy of his predecessor, Pope Francis, in some ways.
Francis famously chose a simple lifestyle, living in the Casa Santa Marta guesthouse in Vatican City rather than the papal apartments.
He transformed the Castel Gandolfo estate into a museum, making it publicly accessible instead of using it for retreats.
Pope Leo XIV admires his predecessor’s humility, but it’s unclear whether he’ll adopt the same lifestyle or embrace opulence.
The future of the papal residence at Castel Gandolfo
The future of the Castel Gandolfo retreat is still uncertain.
Pope Leo XIV hasn’t decided on permanent residence, but Vatican curator Sandro Barbaglio suggested future popes may alter the decision.
“This means a future pope can decide to take back the residence, making it private again,” Barbaglio said in 2016.
It’s uncertain whether Leo XIV will embrace simplicity like Pope Francis or indulge in the lavish perks of his office.