Over a million people packed Madrid's streets Sunday as Pope Leo XIV celebrated open-air mass, second day of his official Spain visit. Vatican said turnout was huge,with crowds gathering at Plaza de Cibeles to see the pontiff arrive.
Pope cruised through city in popemobile, waving to cheering crowds. "Long live the Pope," they shouted,showering him with petals. King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia were there too,having welcomed him at royal palace day before .
Pope praised Spain's anti-war stance and migrant support . His words hit home,especially during Saturday night's prayer vigil near Real Madrid's Santiago Bernabeu stadium. About 500,000 gathered,many young, to hear him.
“In the face of the emptiness of indifference and compliance,before the violence of war and lies, you must be the sparks of a new humanity,”the Pope urged,echoing his royal reception speech. Call for compassion amid Spain's political tensions,particularly socialist PM Pedro Sánchez's clashes with U.S. President Donald Trump over foreign policy on Iran and Gaza.
Security was tight citywide for the mass and procession through central Madrid. Officials prepared extensively for safety of both Pope and crowds,who gathered hours before his arrival.
This is first papal visit to Spain in 15 years. Includes historic address to Spanish parliament and meeting with Church abuse victims. Pope also heads to Canary Islands later in week to honor migrants who died trying to reach Europe.
Pope Leo XIV's visit catches eyes for its religious weight and political stakes, as he tackles complex global issues while pushing for peace and humanitarianism. What will his impact be?…
