Pope Leo XIV arrived in Algiers, Algeria, on Monday, April 13, 2026, to begin an 11-day apostolic journey across Africa. This marks the longest foreign trip of his papacy, which began in July 2025. His itinerary includes visits to Cameroon, Angola, and Equatorial Guinea.
Upon arrival, the Pope was welcomed by Algerian officials. A key event of his first day was a visit to the Great Mosque of Algiers, a significant gesture of interfaith dialogue in the predominantly Muslim nation. The mosque, also known as Djamaa el Djazair, is one of the largest in the world.
The tour is focused on themes of peace, fraternity, and dialogue. The Vatican stated the journey aims to encourage local Catholic communities and promote mutual understanding. The Pope is scheduled to meet with religious leaders, government officials, and youth groups across the four nations.
