According to today’s edition of L’Osservatore Romano, citing the German agency DPA, the home is near where the Pope’s father, mother and sister are buried in Pentling, Germany. The young Father Ratzinger lived there with his sister Maria until he was named the archbishop of Munich. As a cardinal, he frequently returned to visit.
Plans call for a 54 square meter (581 square feet) photoelectric collector that should produce some 5,800 kilowatt hours a year. Proceeds from the sale of this energy will go to an association that assists in the professional formation of disadvantaged youth.
Benedict XVI visited his former house on Sept. 13, 2006, during his visit to Bavaria.
Father Ratzinger had the house built in 1970. His name appears in the archives as the resident starting Nov. 6, 1969. He was made an honorary citizen of the city May 31, 1987, as a gift the residents gave him for his 60th birthday.
