Crowds of worshippers welcome Pope Leo XIV to Monaco in historic visit
Appearing on the balcony of the Prince’s Palace, the Pope said he said he was “happy to spend this day” in Monaco.
Pope Leo XIV arrived in Monaco on Saturday morning for a historic official visit to the Principality — 488 years after the last papal visit.
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The pontiff was welcomed at Monaco’s heliport by Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene after travelling by helicopter for the one-day trip.
Leo then arrived at the Prince’s Palace, where he was once again welcomed by Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene, alongside their children, Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella.
More than 15,000 faithful have filled the stands at Stade Louis II, as the religious congregation gathered for Holy Mass - the highlight of the day.
Inside the stadium, Pope Leo is greeting the crowd, making his way around in a small vehicle and drawing loud applause from all sides.
Later appearing on the balcony of the Prince’s Palace, the Pope said he said he was “happy to spend this day” in Monaco.
Prince Albert II also addressed the public, calling for “lasting peace” in a world facing conflict, and highlighting the importance of faith and values.
Pope Leo began his visit to Monaco with a moment of prayer at Monaco Cathedral.
He then left the Prince’s Palace courtyard in the popemobile, greeted by loud cheers from the crowd. During the journey, the pontiff paused to bless babies being held up towards him, in one of his first close interactions with the public.
The Pope then travelled to Sainte-Dévote Church for the longest popemobile journey of the day. The visit was also shown on large screens outside, allowing crowds to follow the event.
At Sainte-Dévote, Pope Leo XIV met young people and catechumens, answering questions in front of a large crowd gathered in the square. Addressing the faithful, he spoke about the challenges facing modern society, highlighting a fast-paced world shaped by constant change.
After leaving Sainte-Dévote Church, the Pope began another journey through Monaco in the popemobile before taking a short break for lunch.
Later in the day, Prince Albert II and the princely family arrived at Stade Louis II ahead of the afternoon mass. Pope Leo XIV also arrived separately and made his way around the stadium to greet and wave to the crowd.
The public mass at Stade Louis II was expected to be the highlight of the visit, bringing together thousands of faithful and pilgrims for a major moment of prayer and communion.
His visit will feature an official reception, meetings, moments of prayer and a public Mass at Stade Louis II.
As well as its ceremonial significance, the visit highlights the close ties between Monaco and the Holy See and the Principality’s strong Catholic heritage.
The last reigning pope to visit Monaco was Pope Paul III, who briefly travelled to the Principality in 1538 on a diplomatic mission.
