On Tuesday, April 22, 2025, King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia, accompanied by Queen Sofía, visited the Apostolic Nunciature in Madrid to sign the book of condolences for the late Pope Francis, who passed away the previous day at the age of 88. Their arrival at the Nunciature, located on Pío XII Avenue, was marked by a solemn atmosphere as they expressed their admiration for the pontiff's "figure and personality" during their brief stay.
The Royals arrived at the Nunciature at 12:50 PM, where they were welcomed by Apostolic Nuncio Bernardito Auza. The three spent approximately 15 minutes inside, reflecting on the impact of Pope Francis, who had been a transformative figure in the Catholic Church, known for his emphasis on humility and outreach to the marginalized.
Following the signing, King Felipe VI wrote, "Our most heartfelt remembrance to the figure and personality of His Holiness, Pope Francis, which transcends his ecclesiastical dimension; and our admiration and respect for his total dedication to the evangelizing task until the last breath of his life." His words encapsulated the deep respect the Spanish monarchy held for the late pontiff.
The opening of the book of condolences at the Nunciature was part of a broader effort to allow citizens to pay their respects. Since the announcement of Pope Francis's death due to complications from bilateral pneumonia, which had led to over a month of hospitalization, many have expressed their sorrow. The Nunciature opened its doors to the public on the same day, allowing citizens to sign the book and offer their condolences until Friday, April 25, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and on Saturday from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM.
As of Tuesday afternoon, around ten individuals had visited the Nunciature, including María, a 90-year-old Dominican nun, who expressed her deep sadness over the Pope's passing. She was joined by the ambassadors of Iran and Argentina, who signed the book in representation of their respective governments.
Vicente Cáceres, the first citizen to sign the book, remarked that the Pope had "set the bar very high" and was "a very beloved person who cared for the most humble." This sentiment was echoed by others who visited, reflecting a collective sense of loss within the community.
The significance of Pope Francis's legacy was also underscored by prominent figures in Spain. Alberto Núñez Feijóo, the leader of the Popular Party, visited the Nunciature to pay his respects, describing Pope Francis as "the Pope of the forgotten." He highlighted the pontiff's role in expanding Catholicism, particularly in regions where it had less presence, and noted that he would be remembered for his closeness to the disadvantaged.
Pope Francis's death has resonated globally, with leaders and citizens alike mourning his loss. In a telegram sent to Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, Dean of the College of Cardinals, King Felipe VI conveyed the condolences of the Spanish government and people, stating, "His Holiness, Pope Francis, has testified throughout his pontificate to the importance of love for one’s neighbor, fraternity, and social friendship. He will always inspire us with his conviction of the need to bring encouragement and comfort to the poorest and most needy, and the importance he placed on dialogue and consensus to achieve a more just and solidary world."
In the wake of the Pope's passing, various royal houses across Europe, including those of the Netherlands, Belgium, and the United Kingdom, have also expressed their condolences, emphasizing the Pope's transformative role within the Church and his commitment to social justice.
As the Royal Family continued with their schedule, they were set to host a lunch at the Royal Palace later that day in honor of the Cervantes Prize 2024 ceremony, which will celebrate writer Álvaro Pombo. This event, scheduled for Wednesday, April 23, at the Paraninfo of the University of Alcalá, reflects the ongoing cultural engagements of the monarchy even amidst the mourning period.
The Apostolic Nunciature's initiative to open a book of condolences allows for a communal expression of grief and respect, as many citizens are eager to honor a leader who has left a significant mark on contemporary Catholicism. The Nunciature remains a focal point for those wishing to pay tribute to a Pope who was not only a spiritual leader but also a champion for the marginalized and a voice for social justice.
In conclusion, the passing of Pope Francis has not only affected the Catholic community but has resonated deeply within the broader society, as evidenced by the outpouring of condolences and respect from various sectors. His legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations, reminding us of the importance of compassion, dialogue, and solidarity in our world.
