Spain: The Royals at the Nunciature to Pay Tribute to the Memory of Pope Francis

Madrid – Tuesday, April 22, 2025 – Their Majesties King Felipe VI of Spain and Queen Letizia, accompanied by Her Majesty Queen Doña Sofía, visited the Apostolic Nunciature in Madrid to personally offer their condolences for the death of His Holiness Pope Francis.

They were received by H.E. Most Rev. Bernardito Cleopas Auza, outgoing Apostolic Nuncio to Spain and Andorra, who was recently appointed – on March 22 – as the new Apostolic Nuncio to the European Union. Archbishop Auza, soon to leave his post in Madrid, welcomed the members of the Spanish Royal Family with gratitude.

During the visit, the King and Queen signed the book of condolences opened in memory of the Pontiff, expressing their deep sorrow for the passing of Pope Francis and acknowledging the immense spiritual legacy he leaves to the Catholic world and the international community as a whole. The words written by King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia conveyed deep affection, respect, and admiration for the pastoral service and the message of mercy and fraternity carried forward by the Holy Father.

The presence of the Royal Family at the Apostolic Nunciature once again underscores the strong ties between the Spanish Crown and the Holy See – a relationship built on a shared history, a profound sense of institutional respect, and a common commitment to the human and spiritual values that have always inspired relations between Madrid and Rome.

The visit took place in a solemn and reflective atmosphere, marked by the mourning and grief that have touched the entire global Catholic community following the loss of the Bishop of Rome.

J.L.
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