From early morning, thousands of people began gathering at various access points to the territory, where entry is regulated by QR codes. It was planned to accommodate about 700,000 people by the start of the ceremony, which exceeded initial expectations by 100,000.
A security zone spanning approximately three kilometers was organized to receive the faithful. This zone covers the Place de la Concorde, the entire Avenue des Champs-Élysées, the Place de l'Étoile where the Arc de Triomphe is located, and extends to the Avenue de la Grande Armée for those who wish to attend.
Pope Leon XIV will pass through the area of the 'mobile papal throne' before leading the liturgy scheduled for 3:00 PM local time (2:00 PM in Lisbon). According to a representative of the French Episcopal Conference, the service should last about an hour and a half.
This is the culmination of the Pope's visit to France, which is dedicated to the Virgin Mary, the main patroness of the country, as noted by the representative, including 'references to the trip theme.'
The ceremony will attract about 2,400 priests and deacons, as well as about 100 bishops and 1,300 singers, in addition to hundreds of other participants. This concludes the two-day visit, which cost the Church approximately 27 million euros.