Pope Leo XIV in the Canary Islands: Gran Canaria and Tenerife — 11–12 June 2026

Pope Leo XIV in the Canary Islands — 11–12 June 2026

The final leg of Pope Leo XIV's apostolic journey to Spain brings him to the Canary Islands — the archipelago that has become the main maritime entry point into Europe for migrants crossing from West Africa. No pope had ever visited the Canary Islands before.

Thursday 11 June — Gran Canaria

The Pope arrives at Gando air base at 10:50. He then travels to the port of Arguineguín — one of the main landing points for migrants reaching the islands by sea. He listens to the testimonies of four migrants from Africa and Latin America and lays a floral offering in memory of the thousands who have died making the crossing.

In the afternoon, the Pope meets religious leaders at the Cathedral of Santa Ana in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria.

The day closes with an open-air Mass at Gran Canaria Stadium at 18:30, with approximately 50,000 faithful expected.

Friday 12 June — Tenerife and Farewell

Pope Leo XIV arrives at Los Rodeos Airport in Santa Cruz de Tenerife at 9:10. His first visit is to Las Raíces, a reception centre for migrants, where he meets those who have arrived by sea from sub-Saharan Africa.

At 10:10, he attends a gathering at the Plaza del Cristo de La Laguna in San Cristóbal de La Laguna.

At 12:15, the Pope celebrates the final Mass of his Spain visit at the port of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, with a farewell ceremony at 14:30. He departs for Rome at 15:00, expected to arrive at 20:10.

Migration at the Heart of the Visit

The Canary Islands receive thousands of migrants each year on fragile boats crossing the Atlantic from West Africa. Pope Leo XIV's presence at Arguineguín port places the Church directly at the front line of Europe's migration challenge.

Source: Euronews