Contrary to the forecasts of mobility collapse and overflowing streets, the visit of León XIV to Las Palmas de Gran Canaria unfolded surprisingly peacefully, resembling more of a festive day in the sun than the announced catastrophe.

In establishments like La Brava, a brewery with 14 years of history in Lagunetas alley, life continued its course. Its owner, Miguel Izquierdo, while the pontiff entered Santa Ana, announced on a blackboard the broadcast of the World Cup opening match between Mexico and South Africa, demonstrating that daily routines were barely altered.

Despite being a numerous gathering, the presence of León XIV did not mobilize the expected masses in the capital, home to nearly 400,000 residents. The city dawned sunny and alert, with a calmer atmosphere than usual, accentuated by the recent disappointment of UD Las Palmas and the absence of the usual school day bustle.

Although the visit generated conversation in terraces and cafes, the city's pulse remained steady. The warned-of traffic restrictions were largely respected, minimizing aggressive honking and creating a more pleasant atmosphere.

The suspension of classes contributed to increased remote work and less street traffic, allowing for calm strolls. Thoroughfares like León y Castillo, normally prone to traffic conflicts, became peaceful corridors where people enjoyed the sun on outdoor terraces.

The only discordant sound was that of police helicopters hovering over areas near the pope, marking their security perimeter. In contrast, streets like Malteses y Losero offered ample space for shopping and strolling, with pedestrians feeling free due to the lack of traffic.

In Stagno square, the City Council held a brief ceremonial act to present the keys of the city to Prevost, an event that did not generate great anticipation among attendees, some of whom carried a banner with a chant related to the papal figure.

Businesses like Librería Sinopsis announced their normal opening hours, defying predictions of chaos. Their regular clientele sought refuge in literature, finding in books dedicated to León XIV a counterpoint to the day's events.

Bus stops saw movement of faithful, but without a greater load than on any school day. Las Palmas de Gran Canaria once again demonstrated its capacity to mobilize thousands for sporting or cultural events, but the papal visit consumed more media space than it impacted the daily life of its citizens.