Rome – King Felipe VI of Spain has taken on a new symbolic role as protocanónigo of the Basilica of Santa María la Mayor in Rome, a historic connection between the Spanish Crown and the Holy See. The ceremony, held Friday, March 20, 2026, came just hours after an audience with Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican, where discussions included a potential future papal visit to Spain and ongoing efforts to promote peace, according to reports from El Periódico.
The title of protocanónigo effectively designates the King as a kind of “protector” and chief caretaker of the basilica, though the role is largely ceremonial. The relationship between the Spanish monarchy and Santa María la Mayor dates back centuries, and the appointment underscores the continued importance of that bond. The basilica itself holds significant religious weight, having been chosen as the final resting place of Pope Francis following his death last year, a decision made by the pontiff himself. Prior to Pope Francis, seven other popes were laid to rest within its walls: Honorius III, Nicholas IV, Saint Pius V, Sixtus V, Clement VIII, Paul V, and Clement IX.
A Symbolic Ceremony Rooted in History
King Felipe and Queen Letizia arrived at the basilica through the Bronze Door, where they were greeted by Monsignor Jaime Brosel, the Spanish canon of the Liberian Chapter. Cardinal Rolandas Makrickas, the archpriest of the basilica, led the ceremony, which blended political and religious significance. The event formalized the King’s status as protocanónigo, symbolically integrating him into the basilica’s chapter.
The ceremony unfolded with prayers in Latin and a reading from the Book of Wisdom in Spanish. As the royal couple took their place to the left of the altar, the choir performed Ave Maria, setting a solemn tone for the proceedings. The appointment of King Felipe as protocanónigo highlights the enduring ties between Spain and the Vatican, a relationship that has evolved over generations.
Papal Visit to Spain Under Discussion
During his audience with Pope Leo XIV, King Felipe reportedly discussed a potential future visit by the Pope to Spain. While details of the conversation have not been publicly released, the discussion signals a continued dialogue between the Spanish government and the Holy See. The timing of such a visit remains uncertain, but the possibility is being actively explored, according to sources familiar with the discussions.
Beyond the potential papal visit, the meeting too focused on shared commitments to peace initiatives globally. Both King Felipe and Pope Leo XIV have consistently advocated for peaceful resolutions to international conflicts, and their conversation likely centered on strategies for promoting dialogue and understanding in areas of unrest. The specifics of these peace-related discussions were not disclosed.
Felipe VI’s Role and Background
Felipe VI ascended to the Spanish throne on June 19, 2014, succeeding his father, Juan Carlos I. According to his Wikipedia entry, he was born in Madrid on January 30, 1968, during the dictatorship of Francisco Franco. He was formally proclaimed Prince of Asturias in 1977 and sworn in as heir in 1986. Prior to becoming king, he received military training and studied law at the Autonomous University of Madrid, later earning a Master of Science in Foreign Service from Georgetown University.
His military service included time with the 1st King’s Inmemorial Infantry Regiment, demonstrating a commitment to Spain’s armed forces. Throughout his life, King Felipe has been a visible figure in Spanish public life, representing the country on numerous international occasions and playing a key role in fostering diplomatic relations.
Recent Spanish Election Results
The King’s visit to the Vatican comes after a period of political activity in Spain, including recent elections. BioBioChile reports on the composition of the new lower house of parliament following the 2025 elections, though details of the election results are not directly related to the King’s visit to Rome.
The King’s assumption of the role of protocanónigo is expected to further strengthen the relationship between Spain and the Vatican. Further updates regarding the potential papal visit to Spain are anticipated in the coming months. The Spanish Royal Household has not yet announced a timeline for any such visit.
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