The visit of Pope Leon XIV marks a milestone in Spain's political history
This Monday, the Congress of Deputies in Madrid will witness an unprecedented event: the visit of Pope Leon XIV, who will address the representatives of the Cortes Generales in a joint parliamentary session. This is the first time a pontiff has stepped into the Spanish hemicycle, underscoring the significance of this meeting between the Church and the State.
The arrival of the Holy Father is scheduled for 10:30 in the morning, where he will be welcomed by key figures in Spanish politics. The president of Congress, Francina Armengol, and the president of the Senate, Pedro Rollán, will be at the vehicle to greet him. This protocol reflects not only the respect towards the papal figure but also the symbolism that his presence carries in such an emblematic institution.
Upon his arrival, Leon XIV will be greeted by a select group of Spanish leaders, including the Prime Minister, Pedro Sánchez, and other high officials such as Cándido Conde-Pumpido (Constitutional Court) and Isabel Perelló (General Council of the Judiciary). In total, seven authorities will be present to receive the Pope, highlighting the political and social relevance of this visit.
After the initial greetings, the national anthems of Spain and the Vatican City will be played. Subsequently, the Pope will enter the Salón de Pasos Perdidos to sign the Book of Honour and receive symbolic gifts: a facsimile of the “Book of Hours” from Congress and another facsimile of the Códice de Liébana from the Senate. These gifts are not only diplomatic gestures; they represent a cultural bridge between both institutions.
Next, a plenary session presided over by Armengol will commence. The Pope will take his seat among the present authorities as he prepares to deliver his speech. This moment is highly anticipated both inside and outside the hemicycle; many see his words as an opportunity to reflect on social and ethical issues affecting Spain today.
Approximately an hour after his arrival, around 11:30, Leon XIV will conclude his visit with a formal farewell at the vehicle where he was received. This act will not only close a historic chapter in the relations between the Catholic Church and Spain but will also leave an indelible mark on the national collective memory.
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