Pope Leo XIV thanked Spain for the “great enthusiasm and devotion” shown during his recent visit, according to reports from several Spanish news outlets. Following the Angelus prayer and his first official speech after returning from the trip, the pontiff expressed gratitude to both the Spanish public and the King.
How did the Spanish public respond to the visit?
Local reports indicate the visit was met with widespread positivity. According to El Mundo and La Voz de Galicia, Pope Leo XIV specifically cited the “enthusiasm and devotion” of the Spanish people during his reflections following the Angelus prayer.
The cultural reception appeared particularly strong, with EL PAÍS reporting that Spain has “discovered a Pope they like,” suggesting a strong personal connection between the pontiff and the population.
What political impact did the visit have?
Beyond the religious and cultural reception, the visit may have had diplomatic implications for Spain’s internal politics. According to La Vanguardia, the Pope’s presence left the “seed of a future and rare entente” between the PP (Partido Popular) and the PSOE (Spanish Socialist Workers’ Party), the country’s two primary opposing political forces.
Who did the Pope officially thank?
The Pope’s gratitude extended to the Spanish state’s leadership. According to ABC, Leo XIV used his first speech following the trip to formally thank the King of Spain for the welcome and hospitality provided during the visit.
