A diplomatic tradition of the Vatican
The upcoming apostolic journey of Pope Leo XIV to Spain will not only be a religious event but also an act filled with diplomatic symbolism. Whenever a pontiff flies over a country, the Vatican maintains a curious tradition that dates back over 60 years: sending telegrams to the leaders of the nations whose skies they traverse.
This practice began in 1964 with Paul VI, who became the first Pope to undertake an aerial journey by flying over the Holy Land. Since then, every papal flight has been accompanied by this protocol gesture, which acknowledges the sovereignty of countries and establishes a connection between the Holy See and the states.
The telegram is sent just as the Pope's plane enters national airspace. This message includes warm greetings and wishes for peace for the nation, as well as the apostolic blessing of the Holy Father. It is common for rulers to respond to these messages, wishing the Pope success in his mission.
On this occasion, upon entering Spanish territory, Felipe VI, King of Spain, will receive this special greeting. This gesture not only reaffirms the relationship between the Catholic Church and Spain but also symbolizes the formal recognition by the Pope of Spanish sovereignty.
Although the plane does not land on Spanish soil at this moment, crossing its airspace has significant implications from the perspective of international law. The Holy See, as a sovereign state recognized since the Lateran Pacts in 1929, acts in accordance with the diplomatic norms established between heads of state.
The last telegram sent by a Pope to the Spanish King was during Pope Francis's flight to Portugal in 2023. In that message, he expressed his best wishes for Spain while flying over its territory. This continuity demonstrates how these interactions are an integral part of the relationships between the Church and nations with significant Catholic communities.
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