Vatican News has announced that Pope Leo XIV will undertake an Apostolic Journey to France from September 25 to 28, 2026, marking the first official papal state visit to the country in 18 years.
According to the Holy See Press Office, the visit follows invitations extended by French state authorities, Church leaders in France, and the Director-General of UNESCO. One of the major highlights of the trip will be the Pope’s visit to UNESCO headquarters in Paris.
The last official papal visit to France was in 2008 when Pope Benedict XVI visited Paris and Lourdes.
Strengthening Vatican-France Relations
The upcoming journey also reflects growing diplomatic and spiritual ties between the Vatican and France.
Emmanuel Macron recently held talks with Pope Leo XIV on April 10, 2026, their first meeting since the Pope’s election.
President Macron has maintained frequent engagement with the Vatican over the years. Since taking office in 2017, he has met several times with Pope Francis, including visits to the Vatican in 2018, 2021, and 2022.
The French leader also participated in discussions with Pope Francis during events in Marseille in 2023, the G7 summit in 2024, and Ajaccio later that year.
Significance of the Visit
The visit is expected to focus on themes including interfaith dialogue, peacebuilding, cultural cooperation, education, and global humanitarian concerns.
The Pope’s appearance at UNESCO is also likely to emphasize the role of culture, education, and international solidarity in addressing global challenges.
Catholics in France and across Europe are expected to closely follow the historic visit, which could become one of the defining diplomatic and pastoral journeys of Pope Leo XIV’s papacy.
Tags: Pope Leo XIV, Vatican, France, Emmanuel Macron, UNESCO, Catholic Church, Apostolic Journey, Vatican News, Pope Visit to France, Holy See, Pope Benedict XVI, Pope Francis, Paris, Lourdes, Christianity, Religion News, Europe, Interfaith Dialogue, Global Peace, Catholicism
