A city on alert
The Spanish capital, Madrid, is in full countdown to receive Pope Leon XIV, who will visit the city from June 6 to 9. This event, which promises to be one of the most crowded in the recent history of the metropolis, has led the City Council to implement a mobility and security plan that will affect thousands of citizens.
Starting from May 25, restrictions on vehicular traffic will begin, especially along the Recoletos-Castellana axis. Mayor José Luis Martínez-Almeida has urged companies to promote teleworking and offer flexible hours during this critical period. It is expected that mobility disruptions will extend from two days before to two days after the event.
The projections are astonishing: it is estimated that up to 1.5 million people could gather at Cibeles and around 500,000 in the Plaza de Lima. Deputy Mayor Inma Sanz has described this event as “a historic milestone” that requires an unparalleled logistical deployment.
To ensure safety during these critical days, approximately 4,000 police officers will be mobilised, along with nearly 1,000 healthcare personnel. This operation will include preventive measures such as capacity control and intensified surveillance at key points where a large influx is expected.
In order to facilitate movement during the event days, the City Council has opened peripheral parking and will offer free public transport via EMT buses and Bicimad from June 3 to 9. Additionally, taxi services will be reinforced to meet the expected high demand.
Given the high hotel occupancy expected —which will exceed 80%— authorities have called on pilgrims to use municipal spaces designated for their accommodation. “They should not sleep on the streets,” Sanz emphasised, suggesting alternatives such as museums open late or facilities offered by local parishes.
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