During his first visit of the year, the Pope journeyed to Venice for five hours to address a range of pressing issues, including conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East, as well as the threats faced by the city due to climate change and mass tourism. Speaking before an audience of ten thousand faithful in St. Mark’s Square, the Pope called for peace and reconciliation in war-torn regions, urging dialogue over violence. He also recognized the impact of climate change on Venice’s lagoon and cultural heritage, emphasizing the importance of sustainable tourism practices.
As part of his visit, the Pope visited a women’s prison with an artistic exhibition from the Venice Biennale. There, he interacted with inmates and highlighted the need for restoring dignity and humanity within the prison system. He also met with young people outside the Basilica of Santa María de la Salud, encouraging them to disconnect from technology and embrace personal connections and spiritual growth.
Throughout his time in Venice, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987, the Pope expressed concerns about challenges faced by its inhabitants, including social fragmentation, individualism, and depopulation. He applauded efforts to regulate tourism in Venice by implementing a visitor fee aimed at preserving its cultural heritage while maintaining a balance between tourism and local life. The city has struggled with severe flooding and urban decay due to its unique location on waterways that are prone to rising sea levels.
The Pope’s visit to Venice was significant as it marked an important engagement with both its historical significance and contemporary struggles. He acknowledged enduring ties between Catholicism and Venetian culture while underscoring his responsibility as Church leader to address social and environmental issues affecting its communities. As he bid farewell to Venice’s residents
