Formerly the home of the Vatican’s head gardener, The Mater Ecclesiae nunnery will be Benedict’s retirement home after he resigns from his eight-year papacy on February 28.

Now 85, the Pope’s decision to retire within a stone’s throw of his successor will create a situation without precedent for the Catholic Church.

From his front door, broad trees frame a view of the giant dome of St Peter’s Basilica.  I the distance, beyond the terracotta rooftops of Rome, sunlight glints off the snow-capped Apennines.

After resigning, Benedict will take a break at Castel Gandolfo, a summer papal residence in the hills east of Rome. He will then retire to the newly-refurbished nunnery, along with his books, piano and beloved cats.