Pope Leo XIV Visits Historic Site of St. Augustine in Algeria
On Tuesday, the second day of his first papal visit to Algeria, Pope Leo XIV toured the archaeological ruins of Hippo in Annaba. The visit, part of a four-nation tour of Africa, centered on the location linked to the 5th-century theologian St. Augustine. The Pope participated in symbolic acts, delivered remarks on peace, and met with Algerian officials.
Visit to the Ruins of Hippo
The visit to the UNESCO-listed ruins took place under rainy conditions, with significant security measures in place, including police and sharpshooters positioned along access roads.
During the visit, Pope Leo XIV engaged in several activities:
- He prayed under a tent overlooking the ruins, which include structures such as a theater, market, and basilica.
- He planted an olive tree at the site.
- He observed the release of white doves.
- Accompanied by Rev. Joseph Farrell, the head of the Augustinian religious order, the Pope walked through the archaeological site and listened to performances by an Algerian choir.
Later on Tuesday, the Pope’s itinerary included a visit to a local Augustinian community and a celebration of Mass at the Basilica of St. Augustine in Annaba.
Statements on Peace and Reconciliation
In public remarks, Pope Leo XIV addressed themes of peace and reconciliation.
"God's heart is torn apart by wars, violence, injustice and lies," he stated to a gathering in Annaba.
Speaking to reporters, he described his journey as "a valuable opportunity... to promote peace, reconciliation, respect and consideration for all peoples."
The Pope has frequently cited St. Augustine as a guiding inspiration for his papacy, previously describing himself as a "son of St. Augustine." He has stated that the saint serves as a "bridge-builder" for promoting Christian-Muslim coexistence and that a visit to Algeria, due to this connection, was intended to be the first trip of his pontificate.
Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune welcomed the Pope and expressed national pride in St. Augustine, whom he called "a cherished son of this land."
Background: St. Augustine and Hippo
St. Augustine was born in 354 in Thagaste, in present-day Algeria. After being educated in Carthage and spending time in Italy, he returned to North Africa. He served as the Bishop of Hippo and authored foundational works of Western thought, including "Confessions" and "The City of God," at this location.
Scholar Catherine Conybeare, author of "Augustine the African," has noted that Augustine spent almost his entire life in Africa, a fact she suggests alters perspectives on his heritage, which has often been viewed through a European lens.
After his death in 430, Augustine's body was moved to Pavia, Italy. A relic identified as his forearm remains in the Basilica of St. Augustine in Annaba, a site that attracts thousands of pilgrims annually, including Muslims.