Hundreds of thousands of Catholics have sought refuge through water mists, fans, and makeshift tents to protect themselves from the summer heat and sunlight in a treeless park in Lisbon while awaiting Pope Francis' arrival for an event this Saturday evening. Pope Francis arrived in Lisbon on Wednesday as part of a series of events throughout the week connected to World Youth Day, a large gathering of young Catholics held every two or three years in a different city.
Temperatures in Lisbon reached 38 degrees Celsius today and are expected to rise to 41 degrees Celsius tomorrow, Sunday, the last day of the Pope's visit, according to the government meteorological agency. The event is taking place in the new 250-acre Parque do Tejo by the river, which has been established specifically for this occasion. There are no trees or umbrellas at the location, but organizers have provided water sources for attendees to refill their water bottles and distributed hats. Pope Francis is scheduled to celebrate Mass at the same venue tomorrow.
