Pope Leo travelled to Lampedusa on July 4, 2026, for a visit centered on paying tribute to migrants who lost their lives attempting to cross the Mediterranean. Upon arrival, his first words were: "May the world of today and tomorrow be more humane, for everyone." The Pontiff visited the local cemetery, where he placed white and yellow flowers on the graves of migrants who died at sea. He then walked alone through the Porta d'Europa, the memorial dedicated to those who cross the Mediterranean in search of safety. Afterwards, he descended to the rocky shore and paused to look out at the sea. During the visit, a gust of wind blew his zucchetto into the water. In his address, Pope Leo spoke of an "epochal responsibility" for the European Union regarding migration. He described the victims as "the victims of missed decisions," stating that the tragedies derive from choices made or not made. He also said that those who arrive should be welcomed and protected. Before the Porta d'Europa visit, the Pope met with migrants and humanitarian workers. The Archbishop of Agrigento, Monsignor Damiano, described the visit as "a clear message, a caress to those men and women who found the end of their journey in Lampedusa," and called on the EU to conduct an examination of conscience. According to La Stampa, the parish priest of the island stated that new regulations dehumanize migration and abandon the most vulnerable.