Castel Gandolfo is a small town located in the Lazio region of central Italy, about 25 kilometers southeast of Rome. The town is known for being the summer residence of the Pope, with the Papal Palace and its beautiful gardens being one of the main attractions.

The town has a long history, with evidence of settlements in the area dating back to the 7th century BC. The town was a favorite destination of wealthy Romans during the Roman Republic and Empire, and several notable figures, including Emperor Domitian, had villas in the area.

The town is dominated by the Papal Palace, which has been the summer residence of the Pope since the 17th century. The palace was built in the 17th century by Pope Urban VIII, and has been expanded and renovated over the years. The palace and its gardens are open to the public, and offer stunning views of Lake Albano and the surrounding hills.

Other notable attractions in the town include the Church of Saint Thomas of Villanova, which was built in the 17th century, and the Church of Our Lady of the Lake, which was built in the 17th century on the site of a Roman temple.

Castel Gandolfo is also a popular destination for outdoor activities, with hiking, biking, and water sports all popular in the area. The town is also known for its excellent food, with many restaurants serving traditional Roman dishes such as pasta alla carbonara and saltimbocca alla romana.