The sale of the former Pontifical Scots College building on the Via Cassia in Rome has been completed.
Since 1964, the Via Cassia building has been home to generations of Scottish seminarians during their formation for priestly ministry.
It remained there until the building was closed in 2023. Since then, the College has been temporarily residing at the Pontifical Beda College in Rome while a new building is found.
Bishop John Keenan, President of the Bishops’ Conference of Scotland, said: “Today we give thanks for the generations of priests who were formed at the College on the Via Cassia and who have faithfully served the people of Scotland.
“As one chapter closes, another begins.
“With confidence in the Lord’s providence, we look to the future and to the continuing mission of the College in forming priests who will proclaim the Gospel with faith, generosity and hope.”
The rector of the Pontifical Scots College, Fr Mark Cassidy, said: “The sale of the Via Cassia building brings to an end a significant chapter in the life of the Church in Scotland.
“We now look forward to the next chapter in our 425-year history and to finding a new home for the seminary, where we can continue to form men ready for the Church’s mission.”
The bishops wish to record their sincere thanks to the College rector, Fr Mark, and the teams in Rome and Scotland who worked so diligently with him to bring the sale to completion.
