No preparations yet in the Vatican for the Pope's return

Vatican City - The acute threat to the life of Pope Francis, who is suffering from lung disease, has been overcome. After almost four weeks in hospital, a return before Easter no longer seems out of the question. However, the Vatican is cautious.

Published on 11.03.2025 at 13:54 –

The Vatican is not yet preparing for the Pope's return to his flat. Vatican sources said on Tuesday morning that there are currently no such activities. Although Pope Francis' life is no longer in danger, he is continuing his medical treatment and physiotherapy at the Gemelli Clinic. According to Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni, the Pope took part in the Vatican's Lenten retreat, which will continue until 14 March, via video link on Tuesday.

On 14 February, the Pope was taken to the Gemelli Clinic in Rome with a complicated respiratory illness. His life was in danger for around two weeks. Since the doctors treating him changed their prognosis on Monday and no longer speak of acute danger to the 88-year-old's life, there has been speculation in the Italian media about the Pope's imminent return to his flat in the Vatican. Francis normally lives in the Vatican guest house Santa Marta. Thursday marks the twelfth anniversary of his election as Pope on 13 March 2013. (KNA)