Outside Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, a striking statue of Pope John Paul II captures attention. Carved from white Carrara marble, it shows the late pope in a contemplative pose, holding a crucifix, evoking a deep sense of empathy.
John Paul II was famously treated here after surviving an assassination attempt in May 1981, which nearly took his life. His surgery lasted six hours, marking a significant moment as he became the first pope to receive care at this hospital.
Recently, Pope Francis was admitted to Gemelli with a respiratory infection. Doctors have diagnosed pneumonia in both of his lungs, which has raised concerns among the faithful.
During his 25 years as pope, John Paul II spent time in the Gemelli for various health issues. He underwent multiple treatments there, including for a benign tumor, a broken hip, and other conditions related to his Parkinson’s disease.
Opened in the 1960s on land donated by Pope Pius XI, the Gemelli Hospital has become known as the “Pope’s Hospital.” With over 1,500 beds, it is one of Europe’s largest private hospitals. John Paul II affectionately referred to it as “Vatican Three,” comparing it to St. Peter’s Square and the papal residence.
In the 1980s, a special Papal suite was established at Gemelli, which is still used today for popes seeking medical care.
The Papal suite is a simple yet serene space that includes a living room and a chapel for prayer. Security around the suite includes Italian police and Vatican guards to ensure safety. A balcony allows the pope to address crowds outside, where well-wishers gather to offer prayers and leave tokens of support like flowers and candles at the statue of John Paul II.
Pope Benedict XVI, who served for eight years, never required treatment at Gemelli but did visit when his brother was a patient. On the other hand, Pope Francis has been treated there multiple times. His stays have included surgeries and treatments for bronchitis and an intestinal hernia.
Throughout his hospital visits, Pope Francis has shown gratitude to hospital staff, once even sharing a pizza with them after his treatment and officiating a baptism in the hospital.
