Vatican to Convert Historic Clergy Residence into Luxury Hotel Amid Protests

The Vatican is proceeding with plans to transform the historic Domus Paolo VI, a residence for cardinals, bishops, and priests in Rome, into a luxury hotel. This decision has sparked significant opposition from current residents, including senior cardinals, former apostolic nuncios, and prelates, who have appealed to the Secretariat of State and Pope Leo XIV to halt the conversion.

The Domus Paolo VI, located near Piazza Navona, has a history dating back to the 15th century and was designated by Pope Paul VI as a temporary residence for clergy in Rome. Notably, it housed Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio before his election as Pope Francis. The building gained international recognition when Pope Francis personally settled his bill there shortly after his election, symbolizing his commitment to simplicity.

Despite the protests, the Vatican's administration, through APSA, has cited strategic actions including the "transformation into a hotel." Required approvals have been obtained, and a preliminary contract is being negotiated with a future operator. The Vatican states that the renovation is necessary for safety reasons and that it lacks the funds to finance the estimated 50-60 million euro project independently.

The plan involves leasing the property to a private entity for approximately 30 years, with the Vatican expecting to receive around 5 million euros annually. This arrangement would necessitate the current residents vacating their rooms to make way for tourists. While some argue that a four-star hotel would not harm the Vatican's image, the decision has led to controversy within the church community.