Crowds Gather at St. Peter's Square for Inauguration of Pope Leo XIV

vatican city - Thousands gather at St. Peter's Square in Rome for the inauguration of Pope Leo XIV, with world leaders in attendance. Queen Maxima and Prime Minister Dick Schoof to represent the Netherlands.

Crowds Gather at St. Peter's Square for Inauguration of Pope Leo XIV

St. Peter's Square in Rome is filled with thousands of spectators eager to witness the inauguration of Pope Leo XIV, with the presence of many world leaders. Queen Maxima and Prime Minister Dick Schoof will represent the Netherlands at the event.

Traditional Papal Coronation

In the past, popes were crowned during their inaugurations. The special tiara known as the triregnum symbolized the pope's authority over both spiritual and temporal matters.

Since 858, all popes were crowned, with the last coronation worn by Pope Paul VI in 1963. The practice was abolished in 1978 by Pope John Paul I, opting for a simpler inaugural mass. Subsequent popes, including Leo XIV, followed this tradition.