Pope Leo XIV Unveils New Fresco at Genazzano Sanctuary

Pope Leo XIV returned on Monday to a sanctuary that holds significant meaning for him. This was the site where he prayed shortly after his papal election. He unveiled a fresco there, depicting himself in prayer, now gracing an upper cornice of the basilica.

The unveiling took place before a Mass with his fellow Augustinian brothers at the Sanctuary of Our Mother of Good Counsel. This sanctuary is located in the medieval village of Genazzano, south of Rome. Leo follows a tradition of past popes whose visits to this site were marked by portraits on its walls, a practice dating back to Pope Urban VIII in 1630.

Leo’s visit to the sanctuary on May 10, 2025, was his first public outing after becoming pope. Known as the former Robert Prevost, he had visited the place numerous times due to its importance for his Augustinian religious order.

Managed by Augustinian friars, the sanctuary has been a place of pilgrimage since the 15th century. Pope Leo XIII, Leo’s namesake, elevated it to a minor basilica and expanded the nearby convent in the early 1900s.

Upon arriving at the Basilica Sanctuary of the Mother of Good Counsel, Pope Leo XIV received a box containing butterflies. This occurred in Genazzano, central Italy, on Monday, September 7, 2026, as documented by photographer Andrew Medichini.

During his homily on Monday, which coincided with the celebration of Mary’s birth, Leo mentioned his visit from 2025. He recalled writing in the sanctuary’s guest book about his urgent need to visit and pray to the Madonna of Good Counsel after his election. He noted how she has guided him throughout his life with her motherly presence and wisdom.

The Vatican, along with Pope Leo, is increasing its activities now that the summer break is over. They are scheduling the Holy See’s typically busy autumn conferences and audiences. Leo is also preparing for an upcoming trip to France at the end of the month, and later to Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru in November.