Pope to take tram ride while in Krakow

When he visits the southern Polish city of Krakow for World Youth Day next week, Pope Francis will take a tram ride from the local Archbishops’ Palace to the city’s Blonia park.

EPA/MAURIZIO BRAMBATTI Dostawca: PAP/EPA. / Pope Francis waves during the general audience in St. Peter's Square, Vatican City, Vatican, 30 September 2015. EPA/MAURIZIO BRAMBATTI Dostawca: PAP/EPA.

During the trip the pontiff will be accompanied by disabled pilgrims and their caregivers, officials say.

The ride will take place on Thursday, July 28, when the pope will be welcomed by young people from around the world.

Fr. Marek Hajdyla from the World Youth Day Organising Committee has told PAP that the idea for the pope to take a tram ride refers to "the simple, open style" in which the pope exercises his pontificate.

According to Hajdyla, the idea also refers to a time when the pope, when still Cardinal Bergoglio, moved around Buenos Aires using public transportation, including the subway.

Besides the tram is an environmentally friendly mode of transport, Hajdyla said, and the pope underlines the importance of environmental concerns in his encyclical Laudato Si.

Krakow Mayor Jacek Majchrowski will also take a tram to the Krakow Archbishops’ Palace on Franciszkanska Street where he will present Pope Francis with symbolic keys to the city. (PAP)

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