Pope Leo XIV Makes First Visit to Spain Since 2011: A Look at the Itinerary.

Pope Leo XIV's Journey to Spain

According to Espreso.tv: Pope Leo XIV has arrived in Spain for a visit that will take him to Madrid, Barcelona, and the Canary Islands. This marks the first papal trip to the country since August 2011, when his predecessor, Pope Benedict XVI, made the journey. The Pope touched down in Madrid at 10:12 AM local time, where he was greeted by King Felipe VI, Queen Letizia, and Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez Pérez-Castejón.

What's on the Agenda

During his stay, the Pope is scheduled to meet with victims of sexual abuse committed by clergy members in Spain. Beyond Madrid, his itinerary includes a stop in Barcelona to inaugurate a new tower at the Basilica of the Sagrada Família. He will also visit the Canary Islands, specifically Gran Canaria and Tenerife.

Pope Leo XIV has expressed concern over the escalating war in Ukraine, stating:

“The war has intensified significantly in recent days”

“war does not solve problems—it only deepens them”

This visit marks a pivotal moment in the relationship between the Catholic Church and Spanish society, particularly given the planned meeting with abuse survivors. It underscores the Church's commitment to transparency and accountability regarding clerical misconduct. Additionally, the Pope's remarks on the Ukraine conflict highlight the global challenges facing the modern world.

Traveling to major Spanish cities like Madrid and Barcelona underscores the country's significance to the Catholic community and its rich cultural heritage.