Saxony Minister President presents Christstollen to Pope Leo XIV

Saxony's Minister President Michael Kretschmer presented Pope Leo XIV with a four-kilogram Christstollen from the Erzgebirge region during a private audience. The traditional German pastry was baked by Thomas Neubert at a confectionery in Bärenstein.

The gift was presented on a custom wooden board featuring the Pope's name. Kretschmer noted that while the Pope typically does not request gifts, he appeared to appreciate the Stollen. The Minister President also referenced the historical significance of the pastry, noting that Pope Innocent VIII's 'Dresden Butter Letter' in the late 15th century allowed Saxons to use butter during Lent, which facilitated the development of the regional specialty.