For the first time in five centuries, a Pope has paid a visit to the Principality of Monaco. Since the French Riviera is known as the land of billionaires, the Holy Father called on the wealthy to help people in need, citing the Bible which says that the little ones are the ones who make history.
Pope Leo XIV arrived by helicopter from the Vatican to Monaco. He began his one-day trip with a meeting with Prince Albert and the son of the late Hollywood star Grace Kelly. A symbolic visit that marks the return of a Pope to the country after nearly five centuries.
"Dear brothers and sisters, I am happy to spend this day among you and to be the first of the descendants of the Apostle Peter in modern times to visit the Principality of Monaco, a city-state distinguished by its deep ties with the Church of Rome and the Catholic faith."
Known as a haven for billionaires and their luxury yachts, the Holy Father urged them to help those in need. "Every good thing that is in our hands must be shared," said Pope Leo XIV, so that life for all may be better.
"A small gift, complemented by the spiritual side, puts your prosperity at the service of justice, especially at a time like this when displays of power are 'wounding' the world and endangering peace. In the Bible, as you know, it is the little ones who make history."
The Principality of Monaco, the second smallest country in area after the Vatican, is the largest in the world in terms of per capita income and the highest population density.
The Holy Father's visit to Monaco is his second outside Italy, but marks the start of a busy year of travel. The Pope will undertake a four-nation tour of Africa in April and will also make a week-long visit to Spain in June.