Vatican confirms Pope's June 6-12 trip to Spain

The Vatican and the Spanish Bishops' Conference have officially confirmed that Pope Leo XIV will visit Spain between June 6 and 12, 2026.

The Holy See has also announced that the Pope will visit Monaco on March 28 and will also make a 10-day trip in April. Specifically, he will be in Algiers and Annaba from April 13 to 15; Yaoundé, Bamenda and Douala from April 15 to 18; Luanda, Muxima and Saurimo from April 18 to 21; and Malabo, Mongomo and Bata from April 21 to 23.

“Much has been speculated...”

During the last few weeks, the possible papal visit was the object of intense media and ecclesial speculation. Even a concrete travel plan was viralized by WhatsApp that was widely circulated among the faithful and Spanish Catholic communities, according to several specialized media, which placed the trip between June 6 and 12, with detailed itineraries yet to be officially confirmed.

That leaked plan described a week-long stay in Spain with liturgical celebrations, meetings with civil and ecclesiastical authorities, and events focused on the evangelization of young people and families. Although it was not confirmed by the Holy See, it was absolutely correct with the dates that have now been recognized by the Episcopal Conference.

On the morning of February 25, the Archdiocese of Madrid published a communiqué showing its joy for this trip, «that lives this announcement as a reason for hope and communion for the Church in Madrid». It has also recognized that «for months, Madrid has been working with illusion and responsibility before the possibility of this visit. The organization of a papal trip is a broad and complex challenge, which requires coordination, foresight and the collaboration of many people and ecclesial realities. For this reason, the archdiocese set in motion in advance the first organizational structures necessary to prepare for this important event».

One of the most prominent voices has been that of Yago de la Cierva, a figure known for his role in the organization of massive Catholic events in Spain and coordinator of the papal visit next June. De la Cierva stressed a few weeks ago that the Pope's eventual visit is an immense gift for the Church in Spain. For him, this visit represents a unique pastoral opportunity to confirm the faith of Catholics and transmit a message of peace and hope.

The official travel website is born

A few weeks ago, the Bishops' Conference also launched a official website dedicated to the papal trip, The website is designed to centralize all logistical, liturgical and pastoral information for the faithful, media and participants. It is expected to publish programs, credentials, registrations for special events, as well as spiritual preparation materials for those who wish to accompany the Holy Father during his visit to Spain.

Although this platform came into operation recently, it has already become the reference point to avoid misinformation and rumors that for weeks circulated in networks before the official announcement.

What is expected from the visit?

Although the final details of the official program are yet to be finalized with the visit of a Vatican delegation to Spain to finalize details, it is expected that the Pope will be in Spain for the first time:

• Preside masses in several Spanish cities.
• Meet with civil and ecclesiastical authorities.
• Conduct youth events and outreach venues.

The Spanish Church is now looking forward to this event, which is not only of spiritual, but also of social and cultural value for a Catholic community that, after years of challenges, is awaiting a boost of unity and faith in the heart of Europe.