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The Pope is currently unwell in hospital.

Whilst I wish him a speedy recovery, slightly selfishly I am concerned about a family holiday to Rome next week. If he were to die while we are there (or even before) I can well imagine the Vatican closing its doors to tourists temporarily during a period of national mourning. Is there precedent for this? Will they refund our tickets? Is it also likely to affect other attractions in Rome (the Colosseum, for example), for which we also have tickets booked?

Kate Gregory
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Darren
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1 Answers1

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Based on observations from the past two occasions of the Pope dying or stepping down, there will be only minor disruptions for most tourists.

  • Both Italy and the Vatican observe some form of national mourning, but it basically means that flags are flown half-mast and some events (like football matches) can be cancelled or postponed. Museums and other tourist attractions won't be closed just because the Pope died. You mentioned the Colosseum, which is not administered by the Catholic Church and definitely won't close.

  • There will be noticeable disruptions in the Vatican. Fortunately, the St. Peter's Square and the Vatican museums will remain open. However, there will be huge crowds of pilgrims everywhere, and probably also tighter security checks. Some areas that are normally open to the public, like the Vatican gardens, will probably be closed. Sistine Chapel will be absolutely off-limits for a long time, because that's where the papal conclave takes place. It'll probably close very soon after the Pope's death and will stay so for about two weeks (2013 example), or even longer if the cardinals fail to quickly elect a new Pope.

Johnnyjanko
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