Leo XIV in Metz: a historic day at the heart of Europe.

Metz experienced an exceptional day on Monday 28 September with the visit of Pope Leo XIV, the final stop of his Apostolic Journey to France. A visit focused on peace, dialogue and European unity.

Arriving in Metz in the morning, the Pope went to the Robert Schuman congress centre for an interreligious meeting, then took part in a gathering on the theme “The roots of Europe for peace and unity”. The choice of Metz was highly symbolic, as the city is closely linked to European history and to the memory of Robert Schuman.

A gathering at the heart of the Greater Region

Many European figures had come to join the Pope and President Emmanuel Macron, including Grand Duke Guillaume and Grand Duchess Stéphanie of Luxembourg, Luxembourg's Prime Minister Luc Frieden, Prince Albert II and Princess Charlène of Monaco, and Saarland's Minister-President Anke Rehlinger. Former President of the European Commission Jean-Claude Juncker was also present.

A particularly strong turnout for a region like ours, where France, Luxembourg and Germany live side by side every day.

A Mass at Saint-Étienne Cathedral

In the afternoon, Leo XIV celebrated Mass at Saint-Étienne Cathedral in front of a large congregation. Emmanuel Macron, who was not originally scheduled to attend the celebration, was ultimately present.

From the meeting with religious representatives to the speech on Europe and the celebration in the cathedral, this day in Metz combined spirituality, history and a European dimension.

For Metz and the whole Greater Region, Leo XIV's visit will be remembered as one of the defining moments of 2026.