From Algiers to Ancient Hippo: The Second Leg of the Papal Visit to Algeria Begins Copy link

“Algeria’s history has known pain and suffered periods of violence, but it has overcome all of that with honor and courage,” stated Pope Leo XIV.

Addressing the delegations gathered to welcome him at Riadh El Feth Square, the Pope emphasized: “Algeria is a noble nation with an ancient and rich history, deeply rooted in its traditions, stretching back to the time of Saint Augustine and long before.” He added that on this land, which serves as a “crossroads of cultures and religions, mutual respect is the path that enables peoples to walk together.”

The Pontiff continued: “I hope that Algeria—strong in its roots and the hope of its youth—remains capable of continuing its contribution to consolidating stability and fostering dialogue within the international community and across both shores of the Mediterranean.”

"Algeria is a noble nation with an ancient history."

Speaking at the iconic Riadh El Feth Square, Pope Leo XIV paid a powerful tribute to Algeria’s deep-rooted traditions, stretching from the era of Saint Augustine to the present day. 🇩🇿✨#PopeInAlgeria #History #Algiers pic.twitter.com/CCkNJJ1DVg

— Algeria Gate -English (@algatedzEng) April 13, 2026

VATICAN CITY / ALGIERS – Pope Leo XIV departed from Rome’s Fiumicino International Airport this Monday morning, heading to Houari Boumediene International Airport in Algiers.

This journey marks a monumental milestone in diplomatic and religious history, as it is the first-ever visit by a Pontiff to Algeria. The visit is the first leg of a historic 10-day Apostolic journey to the African continent.

Historic Moment: Pope Leo XIV is on his way to #Algeria! 🇩🇿🇻🇦

The papal plane has officially departed from Rome’s Fiumicino Airport, heading to Algiers. This marks the first-ever visit by a Pontiff to the country. pic.twitter.com/3LT0D3VLk0

— Algeria Gate -English (@algatedzEng) April 13, 2026

Massive Global Media Mobilization

The historic nature of this visit is further underscored by the unprecedented international media presence. Scores of journalists from the world’s leading news agencies and Vatican-specialized networks are accompanying the Pontiff on the papal plane. This massive ‘Media Blitz’ highlights Algeria’s pivotal role on the global stage and reflects the immense international interest in this landmark journey of peace and dialogue

⚡️ A Flying Newsroom! ✈️🎤

The atmosphere inside the plane is electric as scores of international journalists head to Algiers. This massive media mobilization reflects the historic nature of the first-ever Papal visit to the country pic.twitter.com/sDccfFJRaZ

— Algeria Gate -English (@algatedzEng) April 13, 2026

From the Basilica of Saint Augustine to the city’s main arteries, Algeria’s “Bône” prepares to make history.

The city of Annaba is preparing to host an unprecedented historic event: the visit of Pope Leo XIV, marking the most symbolic stop of his African tour.

This visit holds special significance as it is the first of its kind in Algeria’s history, deeply rooted in the spiritual legacy of Saint Augustine, who lived in the city and left an eternal intellectual mark. Throughout the city streets, preparations are clearly underway, with extensive cleaning campaigns and the rehabilitation of public spaces, particularly along major arteries like the Sidi Brahim axis and areas surrounding historical landmarks. Significant focus has been placed on improving the urban landscape to reflect the image of an organized city capable of receiving world-class guests.

Religious and historical sites are receiving particular attention, led by the Basilica of Saint Augustine—one of the region’s most prominent spiritual symbols. Preparations have included maintenance and beautification of the site and its surroundings in anticipation of hosting part of the visit’s program.

On an organizational level, local authorities are working in coordination with various agencies to establish meticulous arrangements, ensuring the event’s success in terms of reception, logistics, and delegation security. A substantial media and diplomatic presence is expected, necessitating a high level of readiness.

The importance of this visit transcends mere protocol; it is an opportunity to strengthen the values of dialogue and interfaith coexistence, especially in a country like Algeria, which boasts a rich history of cultural and religious diversity. This event is set to send positive messages regarding stability and openness.

📍 Annaba is Ready: A Historic Welcome Awaits Pope Leo XIV 🇩🇿🇻🇦
Urban renewal and spiritual heritage converge as the city gears up for an unprecedented Apostolic journey. From the Basilica of St. Augustine to its revitalized streets, Annaba stands in full splendor. #Algeria pic.twitter.com/npg67r5P5L

— Algeria Gate -English (@algatedzEng) April 12, 2026

Ultimately, Annaba appears ready to write a new chapter in its history—where the memories of the past meet the aspirations of the present—presenting itself with the confidence and organization befitting its status as a host of global events.