Pope Leo XIV will embark on his first journey outside the Vatican next month, with visits scheduled to Turkey and Lebanon. He will stay in Turkey from November 27 to 30 and in Lebanon from November 30 to December 2.
During his visit to Turkey, the Pope will take part in a pilgrimage to Iznik (ancient Nicaea) to commemorate the 1700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea, a landmark event in Christian history and Catholic–Orthodox relations.
The trip carries strong symbolic significance for interfaith dialogue between Christians and Muslims and will include messages of peace for the Middle East and appeals for the protection of Christian communities in the region.
In Lebanon, it will mark the first papal visit since 2012, when Pope Benedict XVI last traveled there. Pope Leo XIV is expected to meet local authorities and religious leaders, highlighting coexistence, unity, and interreligious respect.
The visit is seen as a major step in strengthening international relations and bringing a message of hope and reconciliation to a region marked by conflict and division.
