Pope León XIV's Santa Cruz visit generates €5.7 million economic impact

The June 12 visit of Pope León XIV to Santa Cruz de Tenerife attracted about 47,600 people, including the papal entourage and worshippers. A municipal study based on 961 surveys estimated the total economic impact at €5.71 million, broken down into €3.04 million direct, €1.35 million indirect and €1.32 million induced effects. The report noted that 89.4 % of attendees travelled specifically for the papal event, with the majority being local residents and a smaller share of pilgrims and foreign visitors. Officials highlighted the boost to commerce, hospitality, transport and the city’s reputation as a venue for large‑scale events.

The study underscored how major cultural or religious gatherings can translate into measurable economic benefits for host cities, reinforcing Santa Cruz’s capacity to organise and profit from high‑profile occasions.