The Community of Madrid will deploy an extensive institutional, health, logistical, and cultural operation for Pope Leo XIV's visit to Spain, scheduled from June 6 to 12. Significant reinforcements are planned for public transport and emergency and healthcare services to ensure the event's smooth running. The Real Casa de Correos, the regional government's headquarters, will serve as the International Press Center, hosting over 2,000 accredited national and international media representatives.
Institutional headquarters across the Community of Madrid will be adorned, and the facade of the Real Casa de Correos will be illuminated with the Vatican's colors, yellow and white, throughout the Holy Father's stay in the region.
The Real Casa de Correos will house an International Press Center spanning over 3,600 square meters, operating 24/7, with access via public transport (Sol, Callao, and Ópera Metro stations) and an on-site health assistance post. All related events will be covered from this hub, centralizing media information activities. Its inner courtyards will be designated for press conferences and workspaces, while a platform for live television broadcasts will be installed in the Puerta del Sol.
The Community of Madrid will provide venues for large gatherings, including the Movistar Arena for an event with civil society representatives, and IFEMA Madrid for the Holy Father's meeting with volunteers. Additionally, facilities at approximately 80 public schools and institutes will be offered for the accommodation of pilgrims and volunteers, with usage restricted to specific areas and times to avoid disrupting academic activities.
SUMMA 112 will coordinate the health operation, involving over 560 daily healthcare professionals, augmented by 40 health commanders and special service personnel for coordination and support at command centers and advanced medical posts. The Madrid 112 service will increase its dispatchers, and logistical support from Civil Protection and fire brigade coverage will be provided.
Canal de Isabel II will implement a special potable water supply system with 18 structures and 162 water points in key areas, along with two 'Water Truck' vehicles for individuals with reduced mobility, and the utilization of 22 public fountains.
The Teatros del Canal will host a free nightly cultural program titled ‘No la debemos dormir’ (We must not sleep), aimed at young people, featuring uninterrupted music and dance from midnight to 5:00 AM on Sunday, June 7. It will include concerts by Clara Montes and Alfonso Acosta Pantera, and performances by the Ballet Español. Pilgrims will receive a 20% discount on selected shows.
Agreements have been made with 54 hospitality establishments near Puerta del Sol to offer special menus and discounts to accredited journalists. The Association of Artisan Pastry Chefs of Madrid will create a commemorative sweet, and the La Mallorquina pastry shop will set up a tasting area in the Real Casa de Correos. Viena Capellanes will present a selection of traditional regional sweets to international media.
Metro de Madrid has launched a special train wrapped with images of the Pontiff on line 4, and intercity buses will also feature decorations related to the visit. 500,000 Multi cards with an exclusive design will be distributed, along with 6,000 pre-loaded cards at a special rate for the organizing committee and volunteers. Furthermore, 11,500 hats will be given to attendees of outdoor events.
