Vatican City, March 29, 2026 – Pope Leo XIV returned to the Vatican yesterday evening, March 28, 2026, concluding his apostolic journey to the Principality of Monaco. The Pontiff’s helicopter touched down at the Vatican Heliport shortly before 7:00 PM, after a flight of less than two hours from the Monegasque state. Before his departure, Pope Leo XIV extended his farewells to Prince Albert II and Princess Charlène, expressing his gratitude for the warm reception in a telegram.
Pope Leo XIV’s Second International Apostolic Journey Concludes
The helicopter carrying Pope Leo XIV began its ascent around 5:25 PM. After spending over eight hours in Monaco, the Pope concluded his apostolic visit, which was the second international trip of his pontificate and his first to Europe.
The farewell ceremony took place at the Monaco Heliport, set against the backdrop of the sea. Following greetings from local officials and the Monegasque delegation in the hall, the Pontiff passed through the Guard of Honor and bid farewell to Prince Albert II and Princess Charlène. A brief dialogue ensued between them, followed by a final greeting and thanks for the hospitality received.
Gratitude for Warm Welcome from Monaco
Pope Leo XIV then boarded the helicopter. The aircraft took off from Monegasque soil around 5:30 PM, quickly ascending into the sky. In a telegram sent to Prince Albert II, the Pontiff expressed his profound gratitude to the Royal Family, the princely family, the government, and the people of Monaco
