Municipal Notice Ahead of Pope León XIV’s Visit to Santa Cruz de Tenerife
The City Council of Santa Cruz de Tenerife has issued a municipal decree in anticipation of the official visit of Pope León XIV to the capital, scheduled for this Friday, 12 June. The document, signed by Mayor José Manuel Bermúdez, outlines recommendations regarding mobility, safety, and the use of public spaces, given that a significant influx of people from various parts of Tenerife, the Canaries, and beyond is expected.
The papal visit will necessitate the reorganisation of some of the city’s usual activities. The City Council aims to facilitate scheduled events, minimise disruptions in traffic, and ensure public services continue to operate smoothly throughout the day.
The Papamobile Route through Santa Cruz de Tenerife
According to the municipal decree, Pope León XIV is expected to arrive in Santa Cruz de Tenerife at 11.30 hours, coming from La Laguna. Following his entrance into the capital, he will travel through various points in the city on the papamobile before heading to the port area, where he will celebrate the Eucharist.
The planned itinerary will pass through Avenida de La Salle, Plaza Weyler, Méndez Núñez, El Pilar, Villalba Hervás, and La Marina. The procession will then continue towards the Cabildo de Tenerife, Avenida Marítima, and the Auditorio de Tenerife.
The route will conclude at the port esplanade of Dársena de Los Llanos, where a greeting to the public is scheduled before the homily at the port site. This area is expected to be one of the main gathering points for the public during the day.
The passage of the papamobile will have direct implications for mobility in central Santa Cruz and the surrounding maritime area. The streets included in the route are among the most heavily trafficked in the city, hence it is advisable to avoid unnecessary travel by private vehicle during the peak hours of the operation.
The City Council reminds citizens that measures may be adjusted based on security needs. Therefore, both timings and access routes may be subject to change throughout the day.
Mobility Recommendations for 12 June
The municipal decree urges citizens to plan journeys in advance, minimise the use of private vehicles, and prioritise public transport. It also advises respecting temporary signage, following directions from security personnel, and using designated pedestrian pathways to access planned areas.
The City Council emphasises that citizen cooperation is key to reducing incidents. The anticipated large attendance necessitates orderly access management, ensuring the safety of attendees, and maintaining essential services.
Those needing to travel through Santa Cruz during the visit should check official notices before departing, particularly if they plan to go to the city centre, the port area, Avenida Marítima, or the zones included in the papamobile route.
Official Channels for Updates on the Pope’s Visit
To provide updated information about the papal visit, mobility measures, and possible incidents, the City Council has set up several official citizen assistance channels.
Information can be accessed via the municipal website www.santacruzdetenerife.es/web/santa-cruz-con-el-papa, by calling 010, via the Anaga chatbot on WhatsApp at 695 886 891, and through email at santacruzconelpapa@santacruzdetenerife.es.
These channels will assist in resolving queries and providing updates on traffic, access, recommendations, and any changes that may occur in the operation. The City Council recommends using these official avenues to avoid confusion or unverified information.
A Call for Civic Responsibility and Care of Public Spaces in Santa Cruz
The decree also includes reminders regarding the preservation of public spaces throughout the day. The City Council stresses the importance of respecting gardened areas, properly disposing of waste, and protecting urban furniture and the city’s vegetation.
Bermúdez has urged citizens to approach the day with responsibility, civility, and respect. The Mayor appealed for public cooperation to ensure the smooth progression of a visit that, he noted, will be part of Santa Cruz de Tenerife’s recent history.
Closure of Municipal Offices Throughout the Day
The Citizen Attention Offices and registration assistance offices will remain closed to the public all day on 12 June.
The City Council suggests that municipal procedures be conducted online whenever possible, or postponed to a later date if they are not urgent. This measure aims to reduce travel and facilitate the organisation and mobility efforts planned for Pope León XIV’s visit.
