Rome’s farewell has the sound of ancient “patarina”

ROME - On Thursday afternoon, at 5 p.m. Rome’s “patarina” - the famous ancient bell of Campidoglio’s tower - will strike three times for a symbolic farewell to Benedict XVI in his last hours as Pope. At the same hour, in fact, the pontiff (who also has the pastoral role of Bishop of Rome) will leave the Italian capital for his summer residence in Castel Gandolfo. Three hours later, at 8 p.m. the “patarina” will strike again three times for the official end of Ratzinger’s pontificate. At 5 p.m. Gianni Alemanno, City’s lawmakers and highest officials will all meet in Campidoglio square to express their gratitude and affection to the Pope.