A papal visit to Santiago de Compostela is one of the most eagerly anticipated events for pilgrims on the Camino de Santiago. Throughout history, not all pontiffs have had the privilege of kneeling before the Apostle’s tomb. Following the passing of Pope Francis — who, despite many invitations, never came — all eyes are now on Pope Leo XIV. Will he be the one to take up a Jacobean route to Compostela in the upcoming Holy Year of 2027? Here we look back on past visits, current efforts, and the hopes for the future.
Inscription at the entrance to the Tomb of the Apostle Santiago
The Last Papal Visits to Santiago de Compostela
Santiago has welcomed three popes in recent history. The first was in 1982, when John Paul II visited for the Holy Jacobean Year. It was a deeply emotional moment, and he even spoke in Galician—a touching gesture for the locals. He returned in 1989 for the World Youth Day and, on that occasion, walked the final stretch of the Camino to the Cathedral, just like any other pilgrim.
Later, in 2010, it was Benedict XVI’s turn. He also came during a Holy Year and, although his visit was brief, it was highly symbolic. He entered through the Holy Door, prayed at the Apostle’s tomb, and celebrated a large mass in Obradoiro Square.
Commemorative plaque of the visits of John Paul II and Benedict XVI in Santiago Cathedral
The Absence of Pope Francis in Santiago
Pope Francis never visited Santiago de Compostela or Spain during his pontificate. While his predecessors did, he chose to prioritise visits to smaller or developing countries.
Several opportunities arose over the years, such as the Franciscan Year in 2015, the Holy Year of Mercy in 2016, or the extension of the Holy Year to 2022, which generated great anticipation. There were efforts and invitations from all major institutions — the Government, Xunta de Galicia, the Archbishopric, and the Spanish Episcopal Conference — and even specific dates were considered for summer 2022. However, the visit never materialised, and his death in 2025 definitively closed that chapter.
Since the Holy Jacobean Year of 2010, there have been no more papal visits to Santiago… but who knows, perhaps the new Pope will resume this beautiful tradition.
Opening of the Holy Door of Santiago Cathedral – a very special moment during a Holy Year
Pope Leo XIV’s Possible Visit During the Holy Jacobean Year 2027
Archbishop Francisco Prieto of Santiago de Compostela has already announced that he will extend a formal invitation to the new Pope, Leo XIV, to visit the city. However, depending on the type of visit, the procedure varies. If it is a state visit, the approval of the Spanish Government is required, along with official invitations from the King, the Prime Minister, and the Episcopal Conference. Naturally, these institutions will support and promote the visit, given its significance.
But there is also the possibility that the Pope might come as a pilgrim — something far more symbolic and deeply connected to the spirit of the Camino. The Archbishop has mentioned that Robert Francis Prevost previously visited Santiago, and that seeing him return as Pope would be deeply moving, especially with the upcoming Holy Jacobean Year of 2027 on the horizon.
Santiago de Compostela becomes the heart of Christendom during Holy Year and a papal visit
The Xunta de Galicia has publicly expressed its hope that this visit will happen, highlighting the immense spiritual and emotional significance it would hold for Galicia. Collaboration between the Archbishopric and civil institutions will be key in the coming months to move the necessary procedures forward.
Although papal visits are usually confirmed only a few months in advance, there is reason to be optimistic. Both religiously and institutionally, efforts are already underway to ensure that Leo XIV can visit the Apostle’s tomb. It would be an unforgettable event for the entire Jacobean community.
As he once told the previous Pope: “Santiago was the first disciple to give his life for the Lord, and I said to him, with a touch of humour, ‘Your friend Santiago is still waiting for Peter to come visit him‘.” A gracious invitation, now passed on to the new pontiff.
Tomb of the Apostle Santiago, the focus of the Pope’s visit to Santiago and the goal of all pilgrims
A Missionary Pope – and a Pilgrim Too?
It’s still early to know the full scope of Pope Leo XIV’s priorities, but all signs suggest he will be a warm, committed pontiff with a strong desire to travel. His own brother described him as a man with a missionary soul and a traveller’s spirit, which has sparked great excitement in Galicia.
The Church in Compostela already has its eyes set on the Holy Year of 2027 as an ideal occasion to welcome the Pope to the Apostle’s tomb. And the Xunta de Galicia has also pledged to work hand-in-hand with the Archbishopric to make the visit a reality.
And you? Can you imagine walking the Camino de Santiago during the next Xacobeo and witnessing a papal visit? Start packing your bag! There’s no better time than now to start dreaming of your own pilgrimage. We’re here to help you make it happen!
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