Pope Leo XIV will visit Barcelona between 6 and 12 June. Plans include a large public gathering at the Estadi Olímpic and a liturgical ceremony at the Sagrada Família. The visit will coincide with the inauguration of the basilica's Jesus Christ tower and the centenary of Antoni Gaudí's death.

Esteve Camps, delegate president of the Fundació Sagrada Família, confirmed the city's proposal. This includes a free-entry "popular encounter" with the Pontiff. It will take place at the Estadi Olímpic on Wednesday, 9 June. Camps stated, "It is pending approval from the Holy See, but this is the planned project." This event mirrors a similar one in Madrid on 6 June. There, the Pope will greet young people at the Santiago Bernabéu stadium.

On 10 June at 19:00, a liturgical ceremony will take place inside the Sagrada Família. This significant event marks the inauguration of the Jesus Christ tower. The tower stands at 172.5 metres, making it the basilica's tallest structure. The ceremony also commemorates the centenary of architect Antoni Gaudí's passing.

Public Access and Montserrat Visit

To accommodate the large number of worshippers, Marina Street will be closed. This facilitates their exit from the temple after the ceremony. Esteve Camps also mentioned plans for "a celebration" following the blessing of the Cross. For those unable to enter the basilica, between four and six large screens will be installed. These will be placed in the surrounding areas. Camps added, "We are speaking with the Ajuntament de Barcelona to determine where these screens will be placed."

Earlier on 10 June, Pope Leo XIV will visit Montserrat. This marks a rare occasion. The last papal visit to the monastery occurred 44 years ago, in November 1982. Pope John Paul II attended at that time. Following his engagements in Catalonia, the Pope will travel to the Canary Islands. He will conclude his Spanish tour there.

Further Information

The Church has launched a dedicated website, conelpapa.es. It provides comprehensive information about the papal visit. This major event is expected to draw significant attention from residents and tourists alike. It highlights Barcelona's rich cultural and religious heritage.

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Originally published by El Periódico Barcelona. Read original article.