Pope Leo XIV on Saturday opened his official visit to Spain with a call for unity, dialogue and respect for international law, using a reception at Madrid’s Royal Palace to praise the country’s commitment to multilateralism and peace.
Speaking alongside King Felipe VI, the Pontiff thanked Spain for what he described as its faithful adherence to international law and its active role in promoting peaceful cooperation among nations. He urged political leaders to resist divisive rhetoric and warned against the dangers of polarisation at a time of deep political tension in the country.
The visit comes as Spain’s Socialist-led government faces growing criticism over immigration policy and corruption allegations, while public debate remains sharply divided on national identity, migration and the role of religion in public life. In his remarks, Pope Leo appealed for dialogue over confrontation, saying societies must not allow ideological rigidity or political rivalry to weaken their commitment to the common good.
The trip is also unfolding under the shadow of the Catholic Church’s long-running clerical sexual abuse crisis. The Vatican confirmed that the Pope will meet privately with survivors of abuse during the visit, a move seen as significant as the Spanish Church continues to confront decades of allegations, institutional failures and cover-ups. A 2023 report by Spain’s ombudsman estimated that clergy abuse may have affected hundreds of thousands of people over several decades.
Pope Leo has already met with members of the Spanish royal family, including King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia, after receiving an official welcome in Madrid. His itinerary includes meetings with government officials, clergy, charitable organisations and vulnerable communities, including migrants and homeless people.
A major highlight of the visit will come on June 8, when the Pope is expected to address both chambers of the Spanish parliament, an unprecedented moment for a pontiff in the country’s democratic history. The address is expected to focus on peace, social cohesion, human dignity and Europe’s responsibility in a fractured global order.
The Pontiff will later travel to Barcelona, where he will celebrate Mass at Antoni Gaudí’s Sagrada Família and bless the completed central Tower of Jesus Christ. The tower, which brings the basilica to 172.5 metres, makes the landmark the tallest church in the world.
The visit, scheduled from June 6 to 12, is Pope Leo XIV’s first official trip to Spain and one of the most politically and symbolically significant journeys of his early papacy.
