Former pope moves back to Vatican

Benedict XVI has moved back to the Vatican, opening an uncertain era in Catholic Church history where an “emeritus pope” and a ruling pontiff will live as neighbours for the first time.

Benedict, the first pope to abdicate in 600 years, will live in a restored convent in the Vatican gardens with a view of St Peter’s Basilica and just a short walk from the residence of his successor, Francis.

Benedict, 86 and in frail health, arrived by helicopter from Castel Gandolfo, the papal summer residence south of Rome, where he had been staying since Feb 28 while the convent was restored.