Trending Now - Pope to Make September Visit to France, Including UNESCO Stop

WHO:

ABC News World - Pope Leo XIV

Vatican News - Pope Leo XIV, French President Emmanuel Macron

WHAT:

Vatican News - Pope Leo XIV will make an Apostolic Journey to France from 25 to 28 September 2026.

Vatican News - This visit will be the first official papal state visit to France in 18 years.

Vatican News - The Pope will visit the headquarters of UNESCO during his journey.

WHERE:

Vatican News - France

Vatican News - UNESCO headquarters

WHEN:

Vatican News - The Apostolic Journey is scheduled for 25-28 September 2026.

Vatican News - The last official papal state visit to France was by Pope Benedict XVI in 2008.

WHY:

Vatican News - The journey is in response to invitations from the Head of State, ecclesiastical authorities of France, and the Director-General of UNESCO.

HOW:

Vatican News - The announcement was made by the Director of the Holy See Press Office.

(UPDATED May 16, 2026 17:20 UTC)

Pope Leo XIV is set to make an Apostolic Journey to France from September 25 to 28, 2026, marking the first official papal state visit to the country in 18 years. During his visit, the Pope will stop by the headquarters of UNESCO, responding to invitations from French authorities and the Director-General of UNESCO. This announcement was made by the Director of the Holy See Press Office.