If you’ve ever wondered where the Pope lives today, the answer is both historic and surprisingly humble. While many assume the Pope resides in the lavish Apostolic Palace full-time, the current Pope, Francis, has taken a different approach. As of 2025, Pope Francis lives in the Domus Sanctae Marthae, also known as the Saint Martha’s Guesthouse, located inside the Vatican City.
Let’s explore more about the Pope’s identity, his role, lifestyle, where exactly he lives, and the reasons behind his unusual choice.
Who Is the Pope?
The Pope is the Bishop of Rome and the leader of the worldwide Catholic Church, serving as the spiritual head of over 1.3 billion Catholics. He’s also the sovereign of the Vatican City, an independent city-state entirely surrounded by Rome, Italy. The current Pope, Pope Francis, was born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and became the 266th pope in March 2013.
Pope Francis is known for his simplicity, humility, and focus on social justice. He’s often referred to as “the people’s pope” because of his approachable style, rejection of excessive luxury, and his concern for the poor and marginalized.
The Pope’s Property and Assets
As the leader of the Catholic Church, the Pope doesn’t personally own vast properties or financial wealth in the way celebrities or world leaders might. The assets associated with the papacy—including churches, museums, artwork, and property—belong to the Holy See (the central governing body of the Catholic Church) and Vatican City, not to the Pope himself.
That said, the Vatican is one of the most culturally and historically rich sites in the world, home to treasures like the Sistine Chapel, St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Vatican Museums. While the Pope has access to these buildings, he doesn’t hold personal ownership over them.
Where Is the Pope Currently Living?
Traditionally, popes have resided in the Apostolic Palace, a massive and ornate residence adjacent to St. Peter’s Basilica. However, since the beginning of his papacy, Pope Francis has chosen to live in the Domus Sanctae Marthae, a modest guesthouse inside Vatican City. His decision marked a notable shift from his predecessors.
Located just a short walk from St. Peter’s Square, the Domus Sanctae Marthae was originally built in 1996 by Pope John Paul II to provide lodging for cardinals during papal conclaves. It features 106 suites and 22 single rooms, mostly used for visiting clergy and staff.
Pope Francis opted for this simpler setting over the Apostolic Palace because he prefers a communal environment. In his own words, he finds the grand papal apartments “too isolated” and not conducive to the daily interaction he values. He lives in Room 201 on the second floor and eats meals in the shared dining area with other residents and guests.
Details of His Living Space
Room 201 in the Domus Sanctae Marthae is modest by all accounts. It consists of a bedroom, a sitting area, a small study, and a private bathroom. It’s practical, not lavish—reflecting the Pope’s well-known commitment to simplicity and service.
In contrast, the Apostolic Palace remains in use for official functions, papal meetings, and ceremonial purposes. The Pope still works from the Vatican offices and regularly appears at St. Peter’s Basilica for mass, but when the day ends, he returns to his quiet space at Saint Martha’s.
Final Thoughts
So, where does the Pope live now? He lives in the Domus Sanctae Marthae within Vatican City, choosing humility and proximity to others over the grandeur of the Apostolic Palace. This living arrangement fits perfectly with Pope Francis’s broader philosophy—one that emphasizes service, connection, and compassion over tradition and hierarchy.
To explore more about the Pope’s home and life, check out VaticanTips.com or this informative video tour of Vatican City on YouTube.
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