The Vatican has published the official program of the apostolic journey that Pope Leo XIV will make to the Principality of Monaco on the next March 28, a one-day visit that will mark the beginning of his announced trips for the first part of 2026.
As the Holy See announced weeks ago, the trip to Monaco will inaugurate the Pontiff’s international travels this year and will be held on the eve of Holy Week, before other planned visits to several African countries in April and to Spain in June.
A Visit with Pastoral and Institutional Dimensions
The visit responds to the invitation from the authorities of the Principality and the archbishop of Monaco and will combine institutional meetings with celebrations and pastoral acts with the Catholic community of the country.
According to the program disseminated by the Vatican, the Pontiff will depart at 7:00 from the Vatican City’s heliport and arrive in Monaco at 9:00, after a journey of approximately two hours by helicopter.
Upon his arrival, the official welcome ceremony will take place at the Prince’s Palace, followed by a courtesy visit to Prince Albert II, during which the Pope will deliver a greeting.
Meeting with the Local Church and the Youth
The agenda will continue with a meeting with the Catholic community in the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, where Leo XIV will deliver a homily addressed to the faithful of the Principality.
Subsequently, the Pontiff will meet with young people and catechumens in front of the Church of Saint Devota, one of the most emblematic temples of Monaco and a traditional place of devotion in the country.
The Holy Mass, Central Act of the Trip
In the afternoon, the Pope will celebrate Holy Mass at the Louis II Stadium, the main liturgical act of the day and the culminating moment of the apostolic journey.
After the official farewell ceremony at the Principality’s heliport, the Pontiff will return to the Vatican, with arrival scheduled in Rome late in the afternoon.
The visit also has a special meaning for the small Mediterranean state, where Catholicism is part of the country’s historical identity and maintains a close relationship with the Holy See.