Pope Leo XIV Thanks Spain for Warm Hospitality
Pope Leo XIV has expressed his gratitude for “the warm welcome and generous hospitality” extended to him during his recent visit to Spain. This appreciation was conveyed in a telegram sent to King Felipe VI upon his departure from Spanish territory after a week of apostolic travel.
### Telegram Message
“On my return to Rome at the conclusion of my Apostolic Journey, I wish to once again express my gratitude to Your Majesty, the authorities, and the people of Spain for the warm welcome and generous hospitality shown to me during this visit,” reads the message signed by the Pontiff and released by the Holy See, as is customary when the Pope concludes a trip.
He added, “Assuring you and all Spaniards of my continued prayers for peace and unity in the Nation, I cordially invoke upon each of you an abundance of divine blessings.”
### Departure from Tenerife
Pope Leo XIV departed from Tenerife on Friday, returning to Rome at 18:08 local time (17:08 GMT) aboard an official Spanish Falcon aircraft designated for the transport of dignitaries. Initially, he was scheduled to fly with Iberia Airlines; however, due to a technical fault with the papal flight’s aircraft, he took the return journey in the plane provided by the Spanish monarch, as reported by the Vatican’s press office.
### Arrival in Rome
The Pope’s arrival in the Italian capital is expected at 23:00 local time. Additionally, the Vatican confirmed that both the Holy See staff and the journalists accompanying the Pontiff will return to Rome in another aircraft provided by the Spanish airline.
### Accompanying Delegation
The delegation accompanying the Pope on his inaugural visit to Spain consisted of approximately 80 members of the press, 25 personnel from the Vatican, and 16 security members. The Pope concluded his seven-day visit in Tenerife after touring Madrid, Barcelona, and the Canary Islands.
