More than one million people gathered in the streets of Madrid on Sunday to attend an open-air Mass celebrated by Pope Leo XIV during his official visit to Spain, according to the Vatican.

The service took place at Madrid’s iconic Plaza de Cibeles, where vast crowds assembled to witness one of the largest religious gatherings in the country in recent years. Pilgrims, residents, and visitors filled the surrounding streets as the pontiff arrived for the outdoor ceremony.

Among those attending were King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia, who had formally welcomed the Pope at the royal palace on Saturday at the beginning of his visit.

Massive Turnout Across Madrid

The Pope greeted worshippers as he traveled through the Spanish capital, waving to crowds gathered along the route. Thousands of people carried flags, cheered, and chanted messages of support, while some tossed flower petals as his procession approached the square.

Authorities implemented extensive security measures throughout Madrid to manage the enormous turnout and ensure the smooth operation of both the Mass and a subsequent religious procession through the city center.

The event marked the second day of the Pope’s visit, which has attracted significant public attention across Spain.

Message of Hope and Renewal

During his trip, Pope Leo XIV praised Spain’s efforts to support migrants and its stance against international conflicts. His visit has emphasized themes of peace, solidarity, and social responsibility.

On Saturday evening, the pontiff also participated in a large prayer vigil near Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, home of Real Madrid. Vatican officials estimated that around 500,000 people attended the gathering, many of them young Catholics from across Spain and beyond.

Addressing the crowd, the Pope encouraged young people to become agents of positive change in society.

“In the face of indifference and violence, you must be the sparks of a new humanity,” he told those assembled during the vigil.

A Significant Visit to Spain

The Pope’s visit has drawn some of the largest crowds seen for a religious event in Spain in recent years. The combination of public appearances, prayer services, and official meetings has underscored the country’s deep Catholic heritage while highlighting contemporary issues such as migration, peace, and social unity.

Religious leaders and government officials have described the visit as an important opportunity to strengthen dialogue on humanitarian challenges and inspire greater civic engagement among younger generations.

As the visit continues, Vatican officials expect additional large gatherings, reflecting the strong public interest surrounding Pope Leo XIV’s first official trip to Spain as leader of the Catholic Church.

The remarkable turnout in Madrid demonstrated both the Pope’s international appeal and the enduring significance of faith-based events in modern Spanish society.