Spain is set to witness an event in the coming months that the country hasn’t seen in over a decade: Pope Leon XIV has officially confirmed his visit, which will span three key regions—Madrid, Barcelona, and the Canary Islands. For millions of believers and the simply curious, this is not just a religious event but also a rare opportunity to see a pontiff already known for his unconventional approach to public life and his connections across diverse social groups.
Leon XIV, the first pope to hold American citizenship, makes no secret of his affection for Spain. His biography is filled with unexpected turns: years spent in Peru working with the country’s poorest communities have made him a figure far removed from traditional notions of church hierarchy. Unlike his predecessor, who never made it to Spain, Leon XIV chose not to postpone the visit despite a packed schedule and a complicated international climate.
Behind closed doors, details of the upcoming meetings are already being discussed. Madrid mayor José Luis Martínez-Almeida and Teresa Urquijo were among the first to receive an invitation to an audience. It is said that their visit to the Vatican was when the final decision on the trip was made. The mayor does not hide his excitement: for him, the pontiff’s arrival is a personal gift and an important political gesture. As a token of respect, he presented the pope with a silver statuette of the Virgin of Almudena, sweets from a monastery in Jerez, and a book about the Hakuna music movement.
Personal and public
Leon XIV has repeatedly emphasized that his mission is to be closer to ordinary people rather than the elite. However, his interactions with celebrities have sparked considerable discussion. This May, he hosted a reception at the Vatican for stars of international cinema and music. Among the guests were Cate Blanchett, Monica Bellucci, Viggo Mortensen, Spike Lee, Gus Van Sant, Robert De Niro, and singer Laura Pausini. The Pope openly admits that he has long followed Pausini’s work and even introduced her to his secretary, who turned out to be one of her passionate fans.
Observers believe that such meetings are more than just a gesture of courtesy. They are part of a new Vatican strategy—openness, dialogue with society, and using media figures to promote a positive image of the Church. Still, Leon XIV insists he does not intend to interfere in politics and prefers to stay out of party conflicts. His goal is to maintain contact with people who can influence public opinion, not for personal gain, but for the greater good.
Spanish itinerary
The pontiff’s planned itinerary covers several symbolic locations. In Madrid, meetings are scheduled with government officials, clergy, and youth. Barcelona is preparing large-scale events, while in the Canary Islands, the Pope plans to focus particularly on migration and social integration issues. The visit is expected to draw tremendous interest not only from Catholics, but also from those far removed from religion, as Leon XIV’s influence long ago extended beyond church life.
Spain is already discussing how the Pope’s visit might influence the public mood. For many, it’s a chance to highlight traditional values; for others, it’s an opportunity to reflect on new forms of dialogue between the church and society. There’s every chance León XIV’s visit will become one of the country’s most talked-about events of the year, with his meetings with famous figures and ordinary Spaniards likely to be quoted and analyzed for a long time to come.
Celebrities and Faith
Particular attention is drawn to the Pope’s attitude towards celebrities. He makes no secret of considering them important allies in promoting humanistic ideas. At the same time, León XIV emphasizes that his sympathies do not depend on status or wealth. What matters more to him are personal stories, sincerity, and a willingness to help others. That’s why he treats politicians, artists, and ordinary parishioners with equal respect.
Across Spain, people are already speculating about which other public figures might receive invitations to meet the pontiff. It’s possible that León XIV’s visit will become not only a religious occasion but also a cultural event that brings together people from all backgrounds and professions.
RUSSPAIN reminds that Leon XIV is the current Pope, elected after the resignation of Francis. He is the first pontiff with citizenship from both the United States and Peru and is known for his openness to dialogue with representatives of art and culture. During his years of service in Latin America, he earned a reputation as a reformer and advocate of social justice. His visit to Spain will be the first in 11 years and is already generating significant public interest.
