Spain's Episcopal Conference defends that Pope León XIV's visit to Madrid will generate 150 million euros despite reported sales drops by hospitality workers.
The Episcopal Conference maintains its forecast of a 150 million euro economic impact from Pope León XIV's visit to Madrid. The figure includes an initial outlay of about 25 million euros with public funds.
Fernando Giménez Barriocanal, national deputy coordinator of the CEE, noted that the Community of Madrid already estimates 120 million euros in that region alone. He added that the results of a commissioned audit will be known in the coming weeks.
Hospitality workers consulted by the outlet reported a drop in sales during the weekend of the visit. Booksellers also attributed a decline at the Book Fair to mobility restrictions.