Pope Leo XIV Affirms Unity with Romans at Historic Capitoline Hill Tribute

Report by Safarti Tarjuman International Desk

Pope Leo XIV made a symbolic stop at **Rome’s Capitoline Hill** on Sunday afternoon as he traveled to the Cathedral of Rome, highlighting his solidarity with the people of the Eternal City. Welcomed by **Rome’s Mayor Roberto Gualtieri**, the Pope received a formal civic tribute in **Aracoeli Square**, situated near the seat of the city’s democratic administration.

In his address, Pope Leo XIV expressed deep appreciation for the city’s hospitality and underlined his spiritual and civic connection with its people. Referring to the words of St. Augustine, the Pontiff declared, “For you and with you, I am Roman!”—a powerful message of unity and shared identity.

The Pope urged city leaders and residents to continue working alongside the Church to foster compassion, education, and service to the vulnerable. “For over two thousand years, the Church has lived her mission in Rome,” he said. “Through acts of charity, youth education, and care for the marginalized, we uphold the dignity of every human being.”

He emphasized the importance of embracing Rome’s long-standing tradition of humanitarian values, deeply rooted in the Christian Gospel, and called for continued collaboration in promoting these principles.

As the city plays a key role in welcoming millions of international visitors during the 2025 Jubilee of Hope, Pope Leo XIV praised the Capitoline Administration’s commitment to making pilgrims feel at home. “This Jubilee Year is a sign of spiritual renewal, and your dedication to supporting pilgrims from all nations is truly commendable,” he noted.

The Pope’s stop at Capitoline Hill reaffirmed the deep bond between the Vatican and Rome’s civic institutions, highlighting a shared vision for a compassionate and inclusive society rooted in faith and service.