The exhibition, which reviews the four major papal visits hosted by Madrid in recent decades, was inaugurated by the Mayor of Madrid, José Luis Martínez-Almeida, accompanied by the delegate councilor for Tourism, Almudena Maíllo, and the councilor-president of the Centro district, Carlos Segura.

Martínez-Almeida highlighted the emotional and symbolic value of the photographs, which are part of the memory of several generations of Madrileños. "I am sure these are photos we all have in our minds and that remind us of those visits, both for the number of people present and for special moments that could be experienced during those days," stated the mayor.

The mayor also emphasized that many of the depicted scenes evoke the atmosphere expected in Madrid during the upcoming visit of Pope Leo XIV, scheduled between June 6th and 9th.

The exhibition, open until June 7th, is displayed on a dozen supports along Paseo de Recoletos, between Plaza de Cibeles and Plaza de Colón. The 22 snapshots showcase massive and emotional moments experienced in the city, including liturgical celebrations and gatherings.

John Paul II visited Madrid on three occasions: from October 31st to November 3rd, 1982; from June 15th to 16th, 1993, for the consecration of the Almudena Cathedral; and from May 3rd to 4th, 2003, for the canonization of five Spanish blesseds.

For his part, Benedict XVI visited the capital from August 18th to 21st, 2011, during the XXVI World Youth Day, one of the largest religious events held in Madrid.