The visit, laden with symbolism, marked the end of a 15-year absence of papal presence in Spain
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Madrid became the epicenter of a historic event this Saturday with the arrival of Pope Leo XIV, who began his first apostolic journey to the country from the Spanish capital since his election in May 2025.
The visit, laden with symbolism, ended a 15-year absence of papal presence in Spain, since the last trip of Benedict XVI in 2011.
The pontiff landed at 10:30 at Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport and, after the official reception, moved to the Royal Palace, where an intense agenda began that combined institutional acts, social activities, and religious celebrations.
Pope Leo XIV
The Pope's Visit
During the morning, Leo XIV was received by the Kings along with their daughters at the Royal Palace. There, the leader of the Catholic Church delivered his first speech before authorities, representatives of civil society, and members of the diplomatic corps, setting the tone for a visit projected to have a strong public impact.
The atmosphere in the city reflected the magnitude of the event from early on. Buildings, balconies, and lanterns displayed Vatican flags and images of the pontiff, in a context of notable mobilization of faithful and visitors who filled various points of the capital.
One of the most notable moments of the day occurred in the afternoon, when more than 600,000 people participated in a prayer vigil in Plaza de Lima. The massive turnout evidenced the level of expectation generated by the visit and the strong religious roots that still mobilize such events in Spain.
Pope Leo XIV
In front of the Royal Palace, a crowd of faithful gathered to witness the welcome ceremony led by King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia. Among the attendees were delegations from various parts of the country, including organized groups from Oviedo and other locations, who traveled to participate in the events and hear the pontiff's message in their own language.
Leo XIV, 70 years old, is well acquainted with Spain, a country he has visited numerous times, up to 50 times, during his time as prior of the Augustinians. However, this is his first visit as Pope, which reinforces the historic nature of the tour.
The pontiff's agenda will continue with a speech before the Spanish Parliament, where he is expected to address issues of social and political relevance.
After his stop in Madrid, the papal entourage will move to Catalonia. In Barcelona, Leo XIV will visit the Sagrada Familia to inaugurate the new tower of Jesus Christ and participate in the commemorative events for the centenary of Antoni Gaudí's death.
The Pope's visit not only marks a religious milestone but also an event of great institutional and social impact, with a massive turnout.
