Papal Visit to Spain: 15 Million Cost and 100 Million Economic Impact

The Spanish Episcopal Conference has released initial budget estimates for Leo XIV's visit, which will include stops in Madrid, Barcelona, and the Canary Islands.

Generic image of a microphone on a podium, symbolizing a public event or speech.
IA

Generic image of a microphone on a podium, symbolizing a public event or speech.

The upcoming visit of Pope Leo XIV to Spain, scheduled from June 6 to 12, is estimated to cost over 15 million euros, with an anticipated economic impact exceeding 100 million euros.

The event coordinators, Yago de la Cierva and Fernando Giménez Barriocanal, presented these initial figures at a press conference. To cover expenses, the Spanish Episcopal Conference expects 50% of the budget to come from donations by individuals, companies, and foundations, encouraging contributions through the 'donoamiiglesia.es' platform.
A significant portion of the funding will be provided by the Canarian Government and the island councils, marking the first time a pontiff visits the islands. In contrast, Madrid, Barcelona, and the central Government will not make direct financial contributions but will collaborate by providing facilities and the necessary security for an event of this magnitude.

The previous visit by a pontiff, carried out by Benedict XVI in August 2011, cost 43 million euros, so the organizers' initial estimate could, on this occasion, be higher than the initial calculations.

Leo XIV's provisional itinerary includes a stay in Madrid from the morning of June 6 to 9, followed by Barcelona from the afternoon of June 9 to 11. Finally, he will visit the Canary Islands, covering both Las Palmas and Tenerife, on June 11 and 12.
In Madrid, two large masses are expected for Corpus Christi. In Barcelona, the pontiff will visit the Abbey of Montserrat and the Sagrada Familia, where he will commemorate the centenary of Antonio Gaudí's death and inaugurate the Tower of Jesus. For the Canary Islands, meetings with migrants, a visit to the Cortes, and various public and private events are planned, although the detailed agenda still awaits final approval from the Holy See.