On this day, 96 years ago, July 25, 1929 (June 19, 1929 in the lunar calendar), the Pope left the Vatican for the first time in 59 years. On July 25, 1929, Pope Pius XI appeared outside the Vatican for the first time today, in a ranks full of mystery and medieval luxury. He signed the Italian-Vatican Treaty, abandoning the 59-year tradition that had allowed him and his predecessor to live like prisoners in the Vatican. He then announced that he would take over the territory transferred to the Pope under the Treaty of Rutland. This was the first ceremony held jointly by the Vatican and Italian authorities. As more than 400 church bells rang, about 300,000 people braved the heat of more than 100 degrees Fahrenheit to flock to St. Peter's Square. The Pope stood on the ornate pulpit wearing a rich silk cloak. The pulpit slowly moved across the square, and people cheered and greeted him.