Pope Leo returns to sanctuary where he prayed after election and unveils a fresco depicting the event
Summary
Pope Leo XIV returned to a sanctuary in Genazzano, Italy, where he prayed shortly after his election. He revealed a new fresco of himself praying, honoring the place and its significance to his religious order.Key Facts
- Pope Leo XIV visited the Sanctuary of Our Mother of Good Counsel in Genazzano, south of Rome.
- He unveiled a fresco showing him praying, placed on the basilica's upper cornice.
- The sanctuary is important to his Augustinian religious order and has been a pilgrimage site since the 15th century.
- Pope Leo XIV first visited two days after his election in May 2025, during his first outing as pope.
- Previous popes, starting from Pope Urban VIII in 1630, have also had portraits commemorating their visits.
- The sanctuary was raised to a minor basilica by Pope Leo XIII, who also expanded the nearby convent.
- Pope Leo XIV referenced his 2025 visit during a Mass commemorating the birth of Mary.
- The Vatican is preparing for upcoming events and the pope’s trips to France and South America later this year.
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