Pope Leo heads on Saturday to the Mediterranean capital of Monaco, a millionaires’ playground on the French Riviera that is the pontiff’s surprise choice for the first Western European trip of his papacy.
The American-born pope, a former missionary critical of the wealthy elite, will travel by helicopter for a day in the world’s second-smallest state, best known for casinos, luxury yachts and Michelin-starred dining.
In Monte Carlo, billboards featuring the suave, white-faced Leo stand in stark contrast to the gleaming sports cars and throngs of tourists, many of whom are unaware of the papal visit.
Isabel Fissore, 62, owner of a small jewelery shop, said she was delighted with Leo’s whirlwind journey from the Vatican – itself the world’s smallest state.
“It is historic, the two smallest states in the world come together to spread the message of peace, light and love around the world,” he said.
“We may be a small state, but we are big at heart.”
