Pope Francis returned to the Vatican on Sunday after a five-week hospital stay due to pneumonia. The 88-year-old pontiff made a brief stop at the St. Mary Major basilica, a place he cherishes, before heading home. He is now beginning a two-month period of rest and recovery.
The pope was seen in the passenger seat of his car, wearing nasal tubes for supplemental oxygen as his motorcade entered Vatican City. Although he did not get out of the vehicle, he handed flowers to a cardinal to place in front of a revered icon of the Madonna.
Before leaving the hospital, Pope Francis acknowledged the crowd gathered outside. He gave a thumbs up and a weak sign of the cross, expressing gratitude to those there to see him off. The scene was filled with cheers of “Viva il papa!” from supporters, including patients who had come outside to catch a glimpse of him.
Doctors had announced his release the day before, stating he needed time to recover and should avoid large gatherings. They expressed hope that he would return to his normal activities in due time. His hospitalization was the longest of his papacy and one of the longest in recent history.
During his stay, the pope faced serious health challenges, including two life-threatening respiratory crises. He was admitted to the Gemelli hospital on February 14 after a bronchitis infection worsened. His condition included pneumonia in both lungs and other complications, but he remained alert throughout.
As he returns to the Vatican, the pope will have access to medical care and supplemental oxygen as needed. His recovery also involves ongoing medication and therapy for a fungal infection in his lungs. His personal physician, Dr. Luigi Carbone, mentioned that Francis had been eager to go home and was feeling happy about his discharge.
At the Vatican, pilgrims flocked to St. Peter’s Basilica, participating in the 2025 Holy Year celebrations. While no special arrangements have been made for Francis’ return, he will continue to receive care as he recuperates in his suite at the Domus Santa Marta.
Despite missing several events due to his health, Vatican officials noted that the flow of pilgrims to Rome has not been significantly affected. As the pope focuses on his recovery, there is hope he may be able to participate in important events later this year, including possible travel to Turkey in May.