Former pope Benedict XVI is 'depressed by retirement' says Vatican insider

The 86-year-old Pope who stepped down to make way for younger Pope Francis is said to be suffering from a sense of deflation - a similar sense when busy working people suddenly stop work.
According to an aide he has been in a low mood which has been compounded by failing health.

Whispers in the Loggia, the Catholic gossip blog written by Vatican observer Rocco Palmo claimed Benedict has not been at his best in recent weeks and was often reminiscing of the past.

The former Pope moved back to the Vatican yesterday to take up residence with current Pope Francis.

It is the first time in Vatican history that two popes have resided within the walls.

Vatican spokesman, the Rev Federico Lombardi has acknowledged Benedict's decline but insists he isn't suffering but is just old.

He said: "He is a man who is not young. There is no special illness. He is an old man who is healthy."

There has been speculation that Benedict is longing for his own role.

The former Pope raised eyebrows from many after choosing to continue to wear the white cassock of the papacy and opting to be called 'emeritus pope' instead of 'emeritus bishop'.