Pope Leo XIV’s upcoming visit to Naples and Pompeii on May 8, 2026, marks a significant milestone as it coincides with the first anniversary of his election. This special visit will include a series of solemn events, including Mass, a traditional supplication, and the veneration of important relics.
By Deborah Castellano Lubov
The details of Pope Leo XIV’s pastoral visit to Pompeii and Naples on Friday, May 8, 2026, have been announced in anticipation of this meaningful occasion.
According to the agenda for Pompeii, the Holy Father is set to arrive at 8:50 a.m. at the Shrine of the Virgin of the Rosary of Pompei. He will be welcomed by representatives from the Church and civil authorities at the meeting area.
Shortly thereafter, at 8:55 a.m., he will engage with representatives of the “Temple of Charity” in the Luisa Trapani Hall, interacting with both those involved in the Shrine’s charitable initiatives and those benefiting from its various services.
Pope Leo XIV will travel through the city in the popemobile at 9:30 a.m., reaching Piazza Bartolo Longo by 9:45 a.m. He will then enter the Shrine for a period of adoration before the Blessed Sacrament, greeting the sick, elderly, and people with disabilities during his visit.
Mass in Piazza Bartolo Longo and supplication to the Virgin of Pompeii
At 10 a.m., the Holy Father will pay respects to Saint Bartolo Longo, visiting the chapel dedicated to the Shrine’s founder and taking a moment for prayer before his mortal remains. He will then be greeted by the bishops present for the occasion, and the priests of the Prelature of Pompeii will welcome him in the Chapel of Reconciliation.
At 10:30 a.m., Pope Leo XIV will celebrate Mass in Piazza Bartolo Longo.
Thousands of attendees are expected to gather in the square and surrounding streets, where large screens will be installed for viewing the service.
Noon will feature the traditional supplication to the Virgin of the Holy Rosary of Pompeii.
Afterward, the Pope will have lunch before departing by helicopter at 3 p.m. for Naples, arriving at 3:15 p.m., where he will be welcomed by Cardinal Domenico Battaglia, the Archbishop of Naples, and other civil authorities.
Naples programme focuses on Saint Januarius
In Naples, Pope Leo XIV will engage with clergy and members of consecrated life within the Archdiocese at the Cathedral.
A large group of children is scheduled to gather in the Cathedral forecourt to welcome him.
Upon entering, the Holy Father will first move privately to the Royal Chapel of the Treasury of Saint Januarius (San Gennaro) for a time of adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. He will then process through the central nave to the high altar, where the bust and reliquary containing the ampoules of the blood of Saint Januarius will be displayed.
Pope Leo XIV will offer a prayer and deliver an address during this visit.
Following his time at the Cathedral, the Holy Father will make his way to Piazza del Plebiscito, a prominent square in Naples, where he is expected to greet the faithful at 5:15 p.m.
Shortly thereafter, at 5:20 p.m., he will visit the Basilica of San Francesco di Paola to meet with the community of the Minims, along with several civil and religious authorities.
Addressing the city of Naples in Piazza del Plebiscito
The day’s concluding event will take place at 5:30 p.m., when Pope Leo XIV addresses the people of Naples in Piazza del Plebiscito.
At the close of this gathering, there will be an Act of Entrustment to the Virgin Mary before the venerated image of the Immaculate Conception, commemorating the bicentenary of its coronation, before Pope Leo imparts his Apostolic Blessing.
Afterward, Pope Leo XIV will depart from Piazza del Plebiscito and travel to Rotonda Diaz, from where he will board a helicopter at 6:45 p.m. to return to the Vatican.
Key Takeaways
- Pope Leo XIV will celebrate Mass in Pompeii on May 8, 2026, marking his first anniversary as Pope.
- The visit will include a traditional noon supplication to the Virgin of Pompeii.
- Pope Leo XIV will also venerate the relics of Saint Januarius in Naples.
- Thousands of faithful are expected to attend the events in both locations.
- A children’s welcome is planned at the Cathedral in Naples.
- The day will conclude with an Act of Entrustment to the Virgin Mary in Piazza del Plebiscito.
FAQ
What are the main events during Pope Leo XIV’s visit?
The visit includes Mass in Pompeii, a supplication to the Virgin, and the veneration of Saint Januarius’ relics in Naples.
What time does the Pope arrive in Pompeii?
Pope Leo XIV is scheduled to arrive in Pompeii at 8:50 a.m.
Who will welcome the Pope in Naples?
The Pope will be welcomed by Cardinal Domenico Battaglia and civil authorities upon his arrival in Naples.
How will the Pope address the public?
Pope Leo XIV will address the people of Naples at 5:30 p.m. in Piazza del Plebiscito.
