Over one million people attend Pope Leo's outdoor Mass in Madrid

More than one million people filled the streets of Madrid on Sunday to attend an outdoor Mass celebrated by Pope Leo XIV, marking the largest event of his week-long visit to Spain. The massive gathering at Plaza de Cibeles and along the main thoroughfare Paseo de la Castellana demonstrated the enduring appeal of the Catholic Church in Spanish society.

Crowds pressed against barriers around the central square, waving flags and shouting 'Long live the pope' as Leo XIV arrived in his distinctive white popemobile. Some faithful threw flower petals as the pontiff made his way through the cheering masses. Young people were particularly vocal, chanting 'This is the youth of the pope!' as the papal procession passed by.

During his sermon at the Mass, Pope Leo emphasized that God stands with the poor and marginalized. He urged the gathered Catholics to live their faith actively by helping others in need. The pope honored Spain's centuries-old tradition of religious devotion, describing it as a 'school of faith from which to draw even today' rather than 'a museum of the past to be visited.'

The event showcased traditional Spanish elements of popular piety, particularly the iconic flower carpets that are laid out for religious processions. These traditions represent a distinctive expression of Spanish Catholic culture that has persisted through generations. The incorporation of these elements highlighted the deep cultural roots of Catholicism in Spanish society.

This papal visit holds particular historical significance as it marks Pope Leo's first visit to an EU country outside Italy and the first papal visit to Spain in 15 years. The massive turnout suggests that despite social changes over recent decades, Catholic faith continues to play an important role in Spanish life and identity.

Beyond his religious message, the pope also delivered political appeals during his visit. He called on world leaders to stop dividing their electorates and to respect 'every human being.' These words come at a time when many European societies are grappling with political polarization and social divisions.

Attendance figures vary by source, with estimates ranging from 'more than one million' to '1.2 million people.' Regardless of the exact number, this represents one of the largest religious gatherings in Spain in recent years. While organizers had anticipated significant attendance, the actual turnout exceeded expectations.

The week-long papal visit to Spain includes various other appointments and meetings, but the Madrid Mass is considered the centerpiece of the trip. The event not only reinforces the historical ties between the Vatican and Spain but also highlights the ongoing role of the Catholic Church in modern European society.

Spain has a complex relationship with Catholicism, having experienced both periods of intense religious influence and secular modernization. The enthusiastic response to Pope Leo's visit suggests that religious faith remains a significant force in Spanish culture, even as the country has undergone substantial social transformation in recent decades.