Benedict XVI resigns as Pope

In an unexpected speech to the cardinals on February 11, 2013, Benedict announced his resignation, claiming his "insufficient mental and physical strength" as a result of his senior age. The day of his resignation, February 28, 2013, was. Since Gregory XII in 1415, he was the first pope to step down, and Celestine V in 1294 was the last to do so of his own volition. Benedict maintained his monsignor's demeanor and wore the papal white robes even after becoming pope emeritus. On March 13, 2013, Pope Francis took over, and on May 2, 2013, he retired to the recently restored Mater Ecclesiae Monastery in the Vatican. In his retirement, Benedict XVI occasionally made public appearances alongside Pope Francis.

Benedict moved into the Pope's Palace of Castel Gandolfo following his resignation. As the Pope's bodyguard, the Swiss Guard's tenure at Castel Gandolfo came to an end with Benedict's departure. At the Pope's vacation home, the Vatican Gendarmerie often provides security; they are solely in charge of the previous pope's safety. On May 2, 2013, Benedict made a permanent relocation to the Mater Ecclesiae convent in Vatican City, which had previously housed nuns for durations of up to several years. Unnamed Vatican authorities claim that his prolonged presence in the city will help with security, prevent his retirement spot from turning into a pilgrimage site, and shield him from potential legal action.