The visit of Pope Leon XIV to Santa Cruz de Tenerife on June 12 generated an impressive economic impact of over €5 million for the municipality. According to a study by the local council, the total impact reached €5.71 million.
This figure includes a direct impact of €3,040,629.54, an indirect contribution of €1,353,080.15, and an induced effect of €1,322,673.85. The report is based on 961 surveys conducted with attendees and island residents, confirming that around 47,600 people participated in the event, which included a mass at the capital’s port.
Mayor José Manuel Bermúdez highlighted that this data shows the visit extended beyond religious significance, turning into a city event with considerable economic, social, and reputational benefits. He emphasized that Santa Cruz successfully showcased its ability to host such a historic event, attracting thousands and enhancing its national and international image.
Bermúdez noted that organizing major events should be viewed as an investment in the city’s future, benefiting local businesses across retail, hospitality, transportation, and overall economic activity.
Carmen Pérez, the councillor for Development, explained that the study quantitatively demonstrates the significant return generated by the papal visit for local businesses. She stressed the importance of measuring such impacts alongside event organisation, which strengthens Santa Cruz’s reputation as a prime location for hosting major national and international events.
The analysis, conducted by SAO, involved 699 face-to-face surveys during the event and 262 online surveys with local residents. Results show that 89.4% of attendees travelled specifically to Santa Cruz for the visit, with the majority being female, aged 45 to 64. Most attendees were from Tenerife, especially Santa Cruz and La Laguna, though some came from other islands, as well as abroad, notably from Germany, Colombia, and Venezuela.
In terms of accommodation, only 13% of attendees stayed overnight, primarily in Santa Cruz, with many opting to stay with family or friends rather than in hotels.
The study indicates that sustainable transport was prevalent, with 41% walking, 28% using buses, and 17% taking trams, while 90% of non-local visitors travelled by air. Attendees also supported local businesses by dining, shopping, and enjoying cultural activities.
On average, attendees spent €79.63 each, contributing €1.11 million to restaurants in the capital and additional amounts towards accommodation and transport. The report highlights that while visitors from outside Tenerife represented a smaller percentage of participants, their individual economic impact was greater due to their spending.
The central area of Santa Cruz benefited the most from the economic activity generated by the event, with Plaza de España accounting for a substantial share of expenditure in dining and retail.
Overall, the study concludes that the papal visit was a significant event for Santa Cruz de Tenerife, fostering not only social and spiritual engagement but also boosting economic activity, attracting visitors, and reinforcing the city’s position as a capable host for large-scale international events.
