Pope to retire to Vatican City cloister

Vatican City - Pope Benedict XVI will retire to a cloister in Vatican City after he steps down February 28, the Holy See announced Monday.

However, since the site is still undergoing renovation work, he will initially head to the papal summer residence, Castel Gandolfo, while the work is completed.

Vatican spokesman Federico Lombardi said the pope will then spend his days in prayer and meditation.//DPA