After 15 years without the presence of a Supreme Pontiff, Pope Leo XIV lands in Spain for a pastoral journey aimed at reinforcing the historical and cultural ties with the nation. The last papal visit was in 2011 with Benedict XVI during World Youth Day in Madrid.

During his stay, which will extend until June 12, the Pontiff has an intensive schedule including stops in Madrid, Barcelona, Gran Canaria, and Tenerife. In total, he will deliver 22 speeches, participate in audiences, make official visits, and preside over religious ceremonies.

The visit partly responds to the desire to show closeness to the Spanish Catholic community and to highlight Spain's importance as a bridge to Hispano-America. A close collaborator of the Pontiff noted that the Pope seeks to "show affection for Spain and also leverage the platform it provides for all of Hispano-America."

Pope Leo XIV, whose middle name is Martínez due to his Spanish ancestry, has visited Spain on numerous occasions. His predecessor, Francis, although he never visited the peninsula, was keen to witness firsthand the migratory drama in the Canary Islands, an aspect that Leo XIV will address by visiting the port of Arguineguín in Gran Canaria, known as the "dock of shame."

The Pontiff's agenda includes meetings with the King and Queen of Spain and the Prime Minister, Pedro Sánchez. He is also expected to celebrate a mass at Cibeles, deliver a speech at the Congress of Deputies, and inaugurate the Tower of Jesus Christ at the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona.