Pope Leo XIV Schedules Extensive Italy Tour Including Visit to Lampedusa
Pope Leo XIV is set to undertake an extensive series of visits across Italy in the coming months, with stops that reflect key pastoral and social priorities of his pontificate. Among the most significant destinations is the island of Lampedusa, long considered a symbol of Europe’s migration challenges. The Vatican has released a detailed itinerary covering day trips to multiple Italian cities between May and August, offering an early glimpse into the Pope’s domestic agenda for 2026.
The schedule begins on May 8 with a visit to Naples and the nearby city of Pompeii. The date coincides with the anniversary of his election to the papacy, adding symbolic weight to the start of the tour. Later in May, on May 23, Pope Leo XIV will travel to Acerra, an area in southern Italy affected by years of illegal toxic waste dumping. The region, often referred to as the Land of Fires, has experienced serious environmental damage and health concerns linked to organized crime activity. The visit underscores the Church’s continued engagement with communities facing environmental and social hardship.
On June 20, the Pope will head north to Pavia, a city associated with Saint Augustine, whose spirituality has influenced Pope Leo’s religious formation. The journey will then take him on July 4 to Lampedusa, an island geographically closer to North Africa than mainland Italy. Lampedusa has become emblematic of migrant arrivals to Europe, as thousands have crossed the Mediterranean seeking safety and opportunity. A papal visit to the island carries strong symbolic meaning, recalling earlier gestures of solidarity with migrants and reaffirming the Church’s pastoral concern for displaced populations.
In August, Pope Leo XIV will travel to Assisi on August 6, where commemorations are taking place marking the 800th anniversary of the death of Saint Francis. The visit aligns with ongoing celebrations honoring the saint known for his message of peace, simplicity and care for creation. Later that month, on August 22, the Pope will participate in the annual Meeting for Friendship among Peoples in Rimini, a prominent gathering that brings together leaders from religious, cultural and political spheres.
The announcement of this coordinated series of visits is notable, as such plans are typically released individually and closer to each event. With the Holy Year of 2025 concluded, Pope Leo XIV now has greater flexibility to travel beyond Rome and deepen his pastoral engagement throughout Italy. In addition to domestic trips, possible international journeys later in the year are under consideration.
Born in Chicago and having spent many years in missionary service in Peru, Pope Leo XIV has often spoken of his appreciation for pastoral travel. His upcoming Italian tour signals an active phase of outreach, combining spiritual celebration, social engagement and solidarity with communities facing pressing challenges.
