Pope Leo XIV will visit France at the end of September

The Vatican has confirmed the arrival of the sovereign pontiff in France from September 25 to 28, at the invitation of the French authorities and UNESCO.

The Holy See officially announced on Saturday, May 16, the visit of Pope Leo XIV to France. The pontiff will stay in France from September 25 to 28, 2026, responding to a three-way invitation: that of the President of the Republic, French religious authorities, and the Director-General of UNESCO. This apostolic visit will mark the first papal visit to France since the election of Leo XIV.

A visit of international scope

The program notably includes a stop at UNESCO headquarters in Paris, according to a statement from the Vatican press office. This international dimension distinguishes the trip from the usual purely pastoral visits. Details of the itinerary and planned meetings with French faithful have not yet been released by the Holy See.

A rare and symbolic event

France has maintained diplomatic relations with the Vatican since 1921. Papal visits remain rare and highly symbolic, particularly in a country where secularism structures the republican organization. The announcement comes several months before the scheduled date, allowing civil and religious authorities time to organize the logistics of such an event.

Radouan Kourak

Journalist and entrepreneur Radouan Kourak is passionate about history and politics. He is known for his analytical skills, his ability to debate, and his passion for the exchange of ideas. Discovered by Cyril Hanouna, he is a regular on television talk shows. He simultaneously manages several entrepreneurial projects in media, public affairs, and real estate, with a results-oriented and growth-driven approach.

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