Pope Leo XIV's visit to Lourdes expected to lift local economy
As Pope Leo XIV prepares to visit the French pilgrimage town of Lourdes, local businesses are hoping the arrival of tens of thousands of pilgrims will provide an economic boost.
Pope Leo XIV's upcoming visit to Lourdes is expected to give a boost to the southern French town's economy, according to a report from France 24.
Lourdes will be the second stop on the pontiff's visit to France, following an earlier stage of the trip in Paris. Around 150,000 people are expected to attend a mass to be led by Pope Leo XIV at the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes on Sunday.
Local business owners in the town, which draws large numbers of pilgrims each year to the Catholic shrine, are hoping the surge in visitors will translate into increased spending on souvenirs, food and other goods and services.
The visit forms part of a wider itinerary that has already taken the Pope through the French capital, with Lourdes marking a significant religious and economic moment for the region.
France 24 reported the story with contributions from correspondents C. Neidhardt, C. Romain, E. Auriaux and C. Bénétreau.
Sources
- Pope Leo XIV visit expected to boost Lourdes economy — France 24 — English
EGazette summarizes reporting from multiple sources; follow the links for the originals.
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