Pope Leo XIV arrived in Monaco by helicopter on 28/3, commencing a one-day visit that marks the first time a Vatican leader has stepped foot in the principality in 488 years. The last papal visit was by Pope Paul III in 1538. Monaco, the world's second-smallest country by area after the Vatican City State, is a Mediterranean coastal nation renowned for its casinos, luxury yachts, and high-end restaurants. It was chosen by the Pope as his inaugural European destination since assuming office in 5/2025.
In Monte Carlo, billboards featuring Pope Leo XIV in simple white attire stood in stark contrast to the gleaming sports cars and bustling crowds of tourists, many of whom were unaware of the Pope's visit.
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Pope Leo XIV waves to parishioners at Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish, Rome, during a pastoral visit on 15/3. Photo: AFP |
Pope Leo XIV waves to parishioners at Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish, Rome, during a pastoral visit on 15/3. Photo: AFP
Isabel Fissore, 62, owner of a small jewelry shop, expressed excitement upon hearing about the Pope's visit to Monaco.
"This is a historical event, as the two smallest nations on the planet together spread a message of peace, light, and love across the world," she said. "We may be a small nation, but we have a big heart."
Monaco maintains Catholicism as its state religion, one of the few places in Europe to do so, and boasts long-standing diplomatic relations with the Holy See. The principality spans about 2 km2 and has a population of nearly 40,000, earning it the moniker "the billionaires' playground". Despite its exclusive reputation, the church stands as one of the few places in Monaco where billionaires, cleaners, and construction workers can sit together.
Archbishop of Monaco Dominique-Marie David stated at a press conference on 27/3 that the Pope would encounter "many different cultures, nations, origins, and languages" during his visit.
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Security forces take positions before Pope Leo XIV's arrival at Monaco Heliport in Monte Carlo, Monaco, on 28/3. Photo: AP |
Security forces take positions before Pope Leo XIV's arrival at Monaco Heliport in Monte Carlo, Monaco, on 28/3. Photo: AP
"The Holy Father's visits always have an impact beyond borders," he added, "thus he knows that Monaco can serve as a small forum to send a message to the entire world."
The Pope's itinerary includes a meeting with Prince Albert II of Monaco and an encounter with the Catholic community at the Immaculate Conception Cathedral. He will then proceed to the square in front of Saint Devota Church, Monaco's patron saint. The highlight of the visit will be an outdoor mass at Louis II Stadium, expected to draw 15,000 attendees.
Vatican spokesperson Matteo Bruni stated that during his Monaco visit, the Pope is expected to discuss environmental issues, a matter of significant concern to Prince Albert II. Discussions will also cover "the protection of life in all its forms", including opposition to abortion and euthanasia, and a call for an end to conflicts, particularly as the Iran war enters its second month.
Joelle Burgagni, a 20-year-old Italian student in Monaco, hopes to "receive advice" from the Pope on practicing her faith. "This visit brings me great emotion and energy," she said.
By Hong Hanh, with AFP
