500-year first: Leo XIV lands in Monaco with unexpectedly tough message
Pope Leo XIV (Photo: Getty Images)
Pope Leo XIV made the first papal visit to Monaco in 500 years, urging local billionaires to use their wealth for the benefit of justice and the needy, reports Reuters.
On Saturday, March 28, 2026, the pontiff arrived in the principality for an official one‑day visit, becoming the first Pope to do so since the last such trip in 1538 - an event of symbolic significance for relations between the Vatican and small European states.
Despite the solemn reception and sunny weather, the Pope's speech lacked diplomatic niceties.
Addressing the crowd gathered near the official residence of Prince Albert II, the pontiff emphasized that the concentration of wealth in the principality should not be admired but serve as an instrument for social justice, supporting the needy, and advancing peaceful initiatives. He called on the residents of the tax haven to reconsider their attitude toward capital.
Leo XIV remarked that wealth must not be restrained but should serve the law, justice, and those in need.
The Pope concluded during the meeting that Monaco’s wealth must become a tool for improving everyone’s lives rather than merely a refuge for luxury.
Incidentally, the Pope presented Prince Albert with a unique mosaic depicting Saint Francis of Assisi - the saint who abandoned a life of luxury to devote himself to the poor. This served as a telling hint about the kind of behavior the Vatican expects from world leaders.
Additionally, in his speech, the Pope also supported Monaco's stance on the protection of human life, particularly praising the prince's veto of the bill to legalize abortion, and called for a deeper embodiment of Catholic values in all spheres of life.
Visit amid global turmoil
The Pope's arrival came at an exceptionally tense moment. While Monaco remains calm, the world is shuddering from the ongoing war in Iran.
Residents who welcomed the pontiff hoped for his role as a peacemaker.
"At the moment there is a lot of tension... He could reunite people... he brings people together," one of those present in the square shared.
This visit was the second international trip by Leo XIV since his election in 2025 and is part of a broader diplomatic effort that includes future planned journeys to Africa and Spain, underscoring the Holy See's commitment to strengthening spiritual and moral ties around the world.
Pope Leo XIV called for an immediate ceasefire in Ukraine on the eve of the fourth anniversary of Russia's full‑scale invasion.
The Pope also said in December that he was ready to come to Ukraine, but there are security-related difficulties. Meanwhile, the Vatican has already developed an organizational plan that would allow him to make this visit.
