Overview

• Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, presided over his inaugural mass on May 18, 2025, in St. Peter’s Square, marking the start of his papacy as the first American pope.
• Princess Charlene of Monaco, Queen Letizia of Spain, and Queen Mathilde of Belgium wore traditional all-white attire, reflecting the rare ‘privilège du blanc’ reserved for select Catholic queens and princesses.
• The ‘privilège du blanc’ allows only seven Catholic royal women worldwide to wear white in the Pope’s presence, contrasting with the black mantilla required of most female attendees.
• Princess Charlene chose a white Elie Saab dress with intricate embroidery, paired with a veil and accessories, showcasing the intersection of fashion and Vatican protocol.
• The event highlighted the ceremonial ties between the Vatican and European monarchies, as global dignitaries, including U.S. Vice President JD Vance, joined the historic occasion.