Surprise fortune Pope Francis left behind revealed

The death of Pope Francis has shone a light on the wealth of the Pontiff and the mind-boggling fortune controlled by the Vatican itself.

Pope Francis. Picture: Alessandra Tarantino/AP Photo

Pope Francis’ net worth has been revealed following the news of his death at 88.

The pontiff died from a stroke and heart failure in Rome on Easter Monday.

The head of the Roman Catholic Church stepped into his role in 2013, but his fortune isn’t as massive as you might think it would be despite the Vatican’s substantial real estate holdings around the world.

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Pope Francis. Picture: Franco Origlia/Getty Images

What was Pope Francis’ Net Worth and salary?

Hello! reports Pope Francis had a personal net worth of £16 million ($A33 million), with assets associated with his office such as his cars, home and clothing.

According to the outlet, the late pontiff was able to draw a yearly salary of £384,000 ($A801, 000).

However, the Pope actually turned down his salary to live a modest life. It’s believed that he donated this money to separate funds and trusts.

But, Francis’ wealth has been disputed. According to Celebrity Net Worth, his net worth was estimated to be around £100 ($A208) at the time of his death.

The Argentina-born Pope’s salary was $0. His basic needs, such as living expenses, food, clothing and travel, are paid for by the Vatican.

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Argentina-born Pope’s salary was $0. Picture: Giulio Origlia/Getty Images

What is the Vatican’s net worth?

According to TIME, the Vatican’s net worth is staggering, with bankers estimating that it is worth anywhere from $US10 to $US15 billion ($A15 billion to $A23 billion).

How many properties does the Vatican own?

Back in 2021, The Vatican released information on its real estate holdings for the first time.

Multiple media outlets reported the Holy See owns more than 5,000 church and investment properties around the world.

According to a report from the church-run Administration of the Patrimony of the Holy See (APSA), the papacy holds 4,051 properties in Italy and 1,120 abroad.

Records show APSA owns investment properties in Paris, Geneva and Lausanne, as well as in London, where the purchase of one property in South Kensington led to huge losses in 2014.

According to Reuters, a majority of the Vatican’s properties in Italy are rented at reduced rates to Church staff.

Around 40 per cent are institutional buildings such as convents, but also schools and hospitals

The Vatican owns more than 5,000 church and investment properties around the world. Picture: Christopher Furlong/Getty Images

Pope Francis chose to live in the modest Vatican guesthouse, Casa Santa Marta. Picture: Supplied

Where did Pope Francis Live?

Traditionally, popes have resided in the Apostolic Palace of the Vatican — a suite of ten rooms including a private study, bedroom, dining room, chapel, medical suite, and offices for the papal secretary.

However, Pope Francis broke tradition and chose to live in the modest Vatican guesthouse, Casa Santa Marta, a residence used by visiting clergy.

In addition to his Vatican home, the Pope also had access to the Papal summer retreat, Castel Gandolfo, a historic estate located on the site of the ancient city of Alba Longa.

Originally published as Surprise fortune Pope Francis left behind revealed