The Vatican Observatory Foundation is one of the oldest astronomical institutes in the world.  During the course of its more than 400-year history,

the Vatican Observatory Foundation studies have focused on understanding the universe through scientific research, recognizing the similarities

between scientific discoveries and the faith of the Church, and educating young astronomers.

The Observatory formed after Pope Gregory XIII called on the Church’s astronomers and mathematicians in 1582 to reform the calendar used

in the 16^th century.  In 1935, the Observatory domes were moved from St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome to Castel Gandolfo in the Alban Hills. 

Then in 1981, the Vatican Observatory Foundation founded a second research center in Tucson, Arizona.

Additional Resources:

http://vaticanobservatory.org/VOF/

http://www.vaticanstate.va/EN/Other_Institutions/The_Vatican_Observatory.htm