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.


