Pope Francis has been discharged from Rome’s Gemelli Hospital after spending five weeks receiving treatment for double pneumonia, the Vatican confirmed on Sunday.
The 88-year-old pontiff has now returned to his residence at Casa Santa Marta within the Vatican City, where he is expected to continue his recovery.
The Pope made his first public appearance in over a month earlier in the day, greeting well-wishers from a hospital balcony.
Though visibly frail and speaking with some difficulty, Francis offered a blessing to the gathered crowd, acknowledging their support and expressing gratitude for their prayers.
“I have had the opportunity to experience the patience of the Lord, reflected in the tireless care of doctors and health workers, and in the love and hopes of the families of the sick,” the Pope said in a pre-recorded message shared with journalists ahead of the weekly Angelus reflection.
Pope Francis was first admitted to the hospital on February 14 with a severe respiratory infection. Medical reports later confirmed a polymicrobial infection, which progressed to pneumonia in both lungs.
Vatican officials had earlier released only one photograph of the pontiff during his hospital stay, showing him praying at the hospital chapel.
While he has been unable to physically lead the traditional Sunday Angelus prayers since his hospitalization, the Pope has consistently shared written reflections each week.
According to his medical team, the Pope’s condition has now stabilized, though doctors recommend at least two months of rest and convalescence.
Despite his health challenges, Vatican sources indicate that Pope Francis remains mentally alert and engaged, though future public engagements will depend on his recovery progress.