1.2 million people show up in Madrid for Pope Leo’s outdoor mass

Approximately 1.2 million individuals gathered in the streets of Madrid as Pope Leo officiated a significant public Mass.

Large crowds gathered in the streets and public squares of Madrid on Sunday as Pope Leo made his way through the Spanish capital to commemorate what was anticipated to be the highlight of his week-long visit to the country.

The pontiff was transported through the city in the popemobile along the Paseo de la Castellana before reaching Cibeles Square, where he led an open-air Mass attended by large crowds of worshippers.

Supporters waved flags, cheered, and chanted “Long live the pope” as he made his way through the city, while some members of the crowd tossed flower petals as he approached the square.

As reported by the Vatican and local organizers, around 1.2 million individuals assembled in the square and adjacent streets to experience the event.

During the visit, the mayor of Madrid presented Pope Leo with the key to the city, and he signed the city’s guest book.

In his message, he conveyed optimism that Madrid would remain a hospitable and inclusive city, driven by authentic human values.

The visit commenced on Saturday with discussions featuring migrants and homeless individuals, subsequently leading to a vigil that drew approximately 600,000 young attendees in Madrid.

Pope Leo’s trip from June 6 to June 12 will also feature visits to Barcelona and the Canary Islands, where he is anticipated to meet with migrants who have journeyed from West Africa in search of safety and improved opportunities.

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The pope expressed his hope that the visit would exemplify respect for all individuals and urged political leaders to refrain from actions that create divisions within societies.

Among those present was Andrea Margarita, a 72-year-old migrant from Peru who made her way to Spain six months prior.

She expressed her satisfaction that the pope was praying for the safety of migrants.

After the Mass, Pope Leo was set to have a private meeting with members of his Augustinian religious order before joining a gathering with individuals from the realms of entertainment, sports, and culture at a concert venue in central Madrid.

The visit signifies his inaugural journey to a European Union nation beyond Italy since assuming the papacy.