Pope Visits Monaco to Ask Rich People to Share

The Vatican’s spiritual leader took a helicopter ride from Rome’s papal enclave to the glittering principality of Monaco, the tiny French‑coast nation famed for its ultra‑wealthy residents and luxurious yachts. There, he met Prince Albert II, the sovereign ruler of this micro‑state.

“In God’s view, nothing is given in vain,” the Pope declared to the Prince and a gathering of local dignitaries, urging those who possess abundance to extend their generosity to the less fortunate.

During the meeting, he presented Prince Albert with a Vatican‑crafted portrait of St. Francis—the saint who once owned great wealth but chose a life devoted to serving the poor. The image serves as a visual reminder of humility and charity.

Monaco, with more billionaires per capita than any other nation aside from the Vatican itself, remains one of the few countries where Catholicism is the state religion. The Pope’s address unfolded in a 12th‑century castle overlooking the sapphire Mediterranean, a setting that echoed both history and reverence.

“Use your wealth for fairness and justice,” he urged, calling upon the principality’s residents to transform privilege into purpose.

This visit marks only the second trip outside Italy for the Pope. He has plans to journey to several African countries in April and will visit Spain next summer.