Historic Papal Visit to Algeria Signals New Era of Catholic-Muslim Dialogue

Pope Leo XIV will become the first pope to visit Algeria (April 13–15), touring the Great Mosque of Algiers, the Basilica of Our Lady of Africa and Annaba to frame the trip as a milestone for interfaith dialogue and Vatican-Algeria ties. The visit comes amid Algeria’s restrictive religious environment and a small Catholic community, and it ties Saint Augustine’s legacy to a broader symbol of reconciliation, while acknowledging the country’s history with Christian communities and the martyrs of Algeria.