Nearly a million young Catholic believers are expected to attend a nighttime vigil led by Pope Leo XIV on Saturday, which marks the end of a week-long pilgrimage, a key event in the Jubilee holy year.
The "Jubilee of Youth", when the Vatican invites Catholics aged 18 to 35 to the seat of the global Church's power, has seen thousands of young pilgrims from around the world flood Rome this week.
It is taking place just under three months since 69-year-old Leo, the first American pope, took over the papacy.
Large groups of pilgrims have packed the streets of Rome all week, waving the flags of their countries or cities and chanting religious songs.
Excitement has mounted over the course of the week for the new pope's final appearance to the youths on Saturday.
