Pope Leo prays for peace in Lebanon and region

Pope Leo XIV prayed for peace in Lebanon and the region on Monday as he kicked off day two of his trip to the multi-confessional country with a visit to a famous pilgrimage site.

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Thousands of people cheered, ululated and threw rice in celebration as Leo travelled in the popemobile up a winding road to a monastery in Annaya in the mountains north of Beirut which hosts the tomb of Saint Charbel, AFP photographers said.

Leo arrived from Turkey on Sunday on his inaugural visit abroad as pontiff and brought a message of hope, particularly to youth in Lebanon whose faith in their crisis-hit country has dwindled.

"For the world, we ask for peace. We especially implore it for Lebanon and for the entire Levant," he said from deep inside the candlelit stone monastery.

Saint Charbel is a Maronite hermit who was canonised in 1977 and who enjoys broad popularity beyond the Christian community.

Depictions of the white-bearded saint can be found in homes, vehicles and workplaces across the country. Music resonated and bells rang out from the site where thousands had gathered amid strict security measures.

"Saint Charbel is like a father to me, and is the greatest saint in my life," said beautician Jihane Daccache, standing in front of the monastery.