A Courteous Gesture Towards the Holy Father
The President of the Community of Madrid, Isabel Díaz Ayuso, is about to carry out a significant act in the recent history of the region. On June 1, during a private audience at the Vatican, she will present the International Medal of the Community of Madrid to Pope Leon XIV. This event has been announced by the regional government's spokesperson, Miguel Ángel García, who highlighted that this distinction is a symbol of the gratitude and respect that the citizens of Madrid feel towards international dignitaries.
The meeting takes place in a special context, as the Pope is scheduled for an apostolic trip to Madrid from June 6 to 9. The medal presentation is considered by local authorities as a courtesy ahead of this imminent visit. According to Law 2/2024, this award is given to foreign representatives as recognition for their institutional work.
Ayuso will not only present the medal; she will also offer the Pontiff a series of carefully selected gifts. Among them is a special edition book, created specifically for this occasion, which compiles representative images of Catholic celebrations in Madrid, from the emblematic S Semana Santa to the traditional Christmas nativity scenes. This book aims to highlight the deep cultural and spiritual roots that these traditions have among the inhabitants of the community.
No less important are the typical Madrid products that Ayuso will bring with her. The palmeritas from Morata de Tajuña, olives from Campo Real, and bizcotelas from San Lorenzo de El Escorial are just a few of the delights that will be part of the gift for the religious leader, thus showcasing a more personal and close aspect of the people of Madrid.
Apart from the protocol event with the Pope, this meeting will serve as a platform to discuss the logistical preparations necessary to welcome thousands of pilgrims during his visit. The Spanish capital will dress in its finest under the slogan ‘Madrid, Comunidad’, where an International Press Centre will be set up at the Royal Post House, ready to accommodate over 2,000 international journalists. Additionally, a special device focused on transport and health services will be implemented to ensure a smooth experience for all attendees.
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