Pope Leo XIV arrived in Spain on Saturday, beginning his first apostolic visit since his election in May 2025. King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia welcomed him at Madrid-Barajas Airport. Tens of thousands lined the streets as the popemobile traveled to the Royal Palace, with the Government Delegation estimating around 130,000 people gathered along the route.
In his first official address, Leo XIV avoided political soundbites, instead calling for an end to divisive narratives. He praised Spain's history as a meeting place of cultures and religions, citing the legacy of Alfonso X and cities like Córdoba and Toledo. He thanked Spain for its commitment to international law and multilateralism, a remark seen as support for Spain's positions on Gaza, Ukraine, and migration.
Notable absences at the reception included former Prime Minister José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero and Basque leader Imanol Pradales. Present were former Prime Ministers Felipe González, José María Aznar, and Mariano Rajoy, along with PP leader Alberto Núñez Feijóo and Vox leader Santiago Abascal.
The Vatican confirmed Leo XIV will meet victims of clergy sexual abuse during his stay, after criticism the meetings were omitted from the program. On Monday, he will address the Cortes Generales, an unprecedented event. The trip will conclude in the Canary Islands, where he will visit migrant reception centers.
The economic impact is expected to be significant, with Booking.com reporting a 52% increase in accommodation searches in Barcelona and 46% in Madrid.