The area around Lake Albano has been a favourite getaway for Roman rulers since the time of the Emperor Domitian in the first century. In the 17th century, it became the favoured summer retreat of the Vatican leaders.

Eventually the Apostolic Camera seized the property from the Savelli family due to financial issues, and in 1604 Castel Gandolfo was incorporated into the Holy See’s assets. The history of the papal summer residence The ancient villa was transformed into a summer residence by order of Pope Urban VIII, born Maffeo Vincenzo Barberini.