Pope Leo XIV may soon cross the borders of the Principality of Monaco. The Holy See's Press Office has confirmed that an apostolic journey to the small Mediterranean state, scheduled for the end of March, is currently being studied. Should the rumour be confirmed, it would be an event of historic significance: the first visit of a Pontiff to the Principality in modern history.
A lightning trip of great significance
The trip, lasting only one day, would mark Leo XIV's second international pilgrimage after the inaugural one to Turkey and Lebanon (November-December 2025). The news comes less than a month after a private audience at the Vatican last 17 January, when the Pope received Prince Albert II. On that occasion, talks between the Monegasque sovereign and the heads of the Secretariat of State had already outlined a common agenda based on care for the environment, humanitarian aid and the promotion of human dignity.
The “geographies” of Leo XIV
The possible landing in Munich is part of a framework of dense international commitments. During the return flight from his first trip to the Middle East, the Pontiff had not hidden his missionary ambitions, mentioning Algeria - for a homage to the places of Saint Augustine and to strengthen dialogue with Islam - and Latin America.
In particular, expectations remain high for a return to his homeland, between Argentina and Uruguay, without forgetting Peru, a nation deeply linked to the figure of Cardinal Robert Prevost.
Peace and security at the centre of dialogue
In addition to the Church's contribution to the Principality's social life, the dialogue between the Holy See and Monaco points straight to the major themes of international current events. Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin and Monsignor Paul Richard Gallagher reaffirmed how bilateral collaboration is fundamental in order to face the global challenges of peace and security, themes that Leo XIV intends to relaunch strongly also in this imminent European “mission”.
