Pope Leo XIV arrived in Paris on Friday morning, September 25, 2026, marking the start of a packed four-day apostolic journey across France. This event marks the first papal visit to the French capital since Pope Benedict XVI’s trip in 2008. Upon landing at Paris-Orly Airport, the Pontiff was officially welcomed by French President Emmanuel Macron, received formal military honors, and was presented with flowers by two local children before stepping aside with President Macron for a brief private discussion.
Speaking to reporters during his flight from Rome, Pope Leo XIV shared his intention to address several critical issues, emphasizing his primary goal as a follower of Jesus Christ to bring global peace. The first major stop on his itinerary is the Élysée Palace, where he will meet further with President Macron and deliver his initial formal address to political figures, diplomats, civil society leaders, and business representatives. A primary topic expected to emerge during these diplomatic talks is end-of-life ethics, following France’s decision earlier this summer to legalize assisted suicide and euthanasia.
Following his stop at the presidential residence, the Pope’s itinerary includes a visit to the headquarters of UNESCO, the United Nations agency dedicated to cultural preservation and human rights. His first day in Paris will culminate in visits to iconic landmarks, including Notre-Dame Cathedral, followed by an evening prayer vigil at the national stadium, where he is scheduled to address an gathering of 80,000 young people.