T-shirts, mugs, caps, coasters, keychains, and bags bearing the image of Pope Leo XIV are beginning to appear on the shelves of souvenir shops frequented by tourists visiting the Sagrada Familia. However, finding suppliers for these items has been a challenge for many establishments.
According to Juani, manager of one of the largest shops in the area, "we haven't bought many products because we've struggled to find them; there weren't many suppliers, and those available offer little." Many of these items are not displayed in the window, and most customers still prefer typical Sagrada Familia souvenirs.
Buyer interest in papal merchandise seems moderate. An Indian tourist, Arjun, comments: "It depends on the price. If it's reasonably priced, we'll buy it; otherwise, I don't think it's worth it." Vendors confirm there isn't significant interest in products related to the pontiff's visit.
Official merchandise is also available online and in department stores in central Barcelona, with a positive reception among Latin American tourists. Guadalupe from Mexico, who will have already returned home by the time the Pope arrives, is buying an item as a gift for her niece: "My family is very Catholic, and I'm looking at the items available because I want to bring a souvenir of the holy father to my niece."
Olivia from Miami had to postpone her return flight to coincide with the papal visit. She has purchased several commemorative items, including "a denarius, a rosary, a fan for the heat, and a cap."
In addition to merchandise, Vatican flags are also being sold. Antonio Gratacós's company has produced over 15,000 flags for the Ginesta Foundation, featuring the white and yellow colors and the Vatican's coat of arms.
Business associations like Barcelona Oberta and Comertia do not anticipate a significant increase in sales due to the visit. A survey by Comertia indicates that only 11% of establishments expect to boost their sales during these days.




