Madrid Metro Pope Leo XIV visit is bringing special transport measures to the capital, with authorities expecting many pilgrims and visitors from June 6 to 9. The plan combines a wrapped train on Line 4, commemorative Multi cards, and extended metro hours after a major religious event.

Madrid Metro Pope Leo XIV visit: special plan
Madrid Metro Pope Leo XIV visit: special plan

Jorge Rodrigo, the regional minister for housing, transportation, and infrastructure, presented the measures during a ride between Velázquez station and the Avenida de América transit hub, according to the Community of Madrid. The ride took place on Metro Madrid Line 4, which has become one of the visible symbols of the preparations.

Madrid Metro Pope Leo XIV visit plan on Line 4

Metro Madrid has put a specially wrapped train into service on Line 4 for the period around Pope Leo XIV’s apostolic journey. It will continue running until June 12 and will serve all 23 stations on the line.

The train’s exterior features commemorative images and the official motto of the visit, “Alzad la mirada,” which can be translated approximately as “Lift up your gaze.” Jorge Rodrigo said the train belongs to a wider plan prepared to handle the expected increase in ridership while the Holy Father is in Madrid.

Limited-edition Multi transit card for passengers

The Regional Transport Consortium has prepared a limited-edition anonymous Multi transit card for the occasion. It carries a commemorative design inspired by Pope Leo XIV’s visit and will be available at the regular price of EUR 2.5.

Passengers will be able to buy the card from vending machines at 40 metro stations. The machines will display the pope’s image, making them easier to identify during the visit.

The visual campaign will reach beyond the metro network as well. Some intercity buses in the Madrid region will carry stickers dedicated to Pope Leo XIV, taking the message of the visit to towns across the region.

Extended metro hours after the Plaza de Lima event

Madrid authorities have also adjusted the timetable to support pilgrims and other participants on their return journeys. Metro Madrid will run one hour longer on the night of June 6–7, with trains operating until 2:30 a.m.

The extended service is meant to help passengers leave after the religious event presided over by the Pope in Plaza de Lima. Alongside the wrapped train and special Multi cards, it forms part of Madrid’s wider mobility response to Pope Leo XIV’s stay in the city.