Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez presented Pope Leo XIV with a bonsai olive tree as a symbol of peace and dialogue, the press service of the kingdom’s cabinet chief reported.

The pontiff received the prime minister at the Apostolic Nunciature in Madrid. As noted, during the meeting Sánchez presented the Pope with a “13-year-old Spanish bonsai olive tree.” It is specified that this plant “represents the perfect balance between tradition and innovation, between respect for historical roots and the introduction of advanced technologies.” “The olive tree is a universal symbol of peace, dialogue, and understanding — values shared by Spain and the Vatican,” the cabinet press service added.

Leo XIV arrived in Spain on June 6. As part of his visit to the country, he is also scheduled to visit Barcelona and the Canary Islands.

The last pontiff to visit Spain was Benedict XVI (1927–2022). In 2011, he traveled to the country for World Youth Day.