Pope Benedict XVI at Castel Gandolfo

This is a very good article about Castel Gandolfo.

Vatican City, the Basilica of St. John Lateran, and Castel Gandolfo operate outside of the country of Italy even though they are totally enclosed by it.

Castel Gandolfo is actually larger than Vatican City --- 136 acres to 108 acres. The Pope takes time away from the city there in the beautiful gardens and is there right now.

During the Second World War, Pius XII hid many Jews on the grounds there as well.