Vatican Considering Possible Papal Visit to Monaco in Late March
The Holy See Press Office has confirmed that a one day visit by Pope Leo XIV to the Principality of Monaco is currently under consideration. The possible trip, which would take place at the end of March, was announced in response to questions from journalists. If confirmed, the journey would mark the second international trip of his Pontificate and the first papal visit to Monaco in the modern era.
According to Vatican officials, the proposed visit would be limited to a single day, though further details regarding the program or specific events have not yet been released. The announcement has drawn attention, given the historical significance of a papal presence in the small Mediterranean principality, which maintains longstanding diplomatic relations with the Holy See.
Pope Leo XIV began his Pontificate with a clear emphasis on dialogue, pastoral outreach, and international engagement. His first journey outside Italy took place from 27 November to 2 December 2025, when he traveled to Turkey and Lebanon. That visit focused on ecumenical relations, regional stability, and interreligious dialogue, reinforcing the Vatican’s diplomatic and spiritual role in the Middle East.
During his return flight from that trip, the Pope spoke openly about possible future journeys. He expressed a desire to visit Algeria, particularly sites associated with Saint Augustine, underscoring his interest in strengthening dialogue between Christian and Muslim communities. He also indicated his hope of traveling to Latin America, mentioning Argentina, Uruguay, and Peru. Peru holds particular personal significance for the Pope, as it was the country where Robert Prevost first served as a missionary and later as a bishop before his election to the papacy.
The potential visit to Monaco follows an audience granted to Prince Albert II of Monaco at the Vatican on 17 January. After the private meeting with the Pope, the Monegasque delegation held discussions at the Secretariat of State. According to the Holy See, the talks reflected the positive bilateral relations between the Principality and the Vatican, as well as the role of the Catholic Church in Monaco’s social and cultural life.
Further meetings with Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican Secretary of State, and Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, Secretary for Relations with States and International Organizations, addressed areas of shared concern. These included environmental protection, humanitarian initiatives, and the promotion of human dignity. International developments were also discussed, with particular attention to global peace and security challenges.
Monaco, though geographically small, holds a unique place in European affairs and maintains an active diplomatic profile. A papal visit would carry symbolic weight, reinforcing the Church’s pastoral presence and its engagement with civil authorities on issues such as environmental stewardship and social responsibility.
While the Holy See has not yet confirmed the trip, preparations are reportedly being examined. Should the visit proceed, it would represent a notable milestone in the history of Vatican relations with the Principality and further reflect Pope Leo XIV’s commitment to international outreach during the early phase of his Pontificate.
