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During his reign, Pope John Paul II, known as "The Pilgrim Pope," made 146 pastoral visits within Italy and 104 international trips, covering over 1,167,000 km (725,000 mi), more than all previous popes combined. He attracted massive crowds, with some of the largest gatherings in history. While some destinations, such as the United States and Israel, had been visited by his predecessor Paul VI, many were unprecedented papal visits. John Paul II visited 129 countries, including nine visits to Poland, eight to France, seven to the United States, and five each to Mexico and Spain. His travels spanned six continents, reaching countries such as Albania, Brazil, India, Israel, and the Philippines.

Pope John Paul II's visit to Venezuela, Ecuador, Peru, and Trinidad and Tobago in July 1985 was a historic and significant tour that highlighted the Catholic Church's commitment to social justice and peace in Latin America. The Pope arrived in Venezuela first, where he addressed issues of poverty and human rights, encouraging the faithful to advocate for the marginalized. In Ecuador, he celebrated Mass in the capital, Quito, emphasizing the importance of indigenous rights and cultural preservation. His journey continued to Peru, where he met with local leaders and called for dialogue amidst political turmoil, urging solidarity among the people. The visit concluded in Trinidad and Tobago, where he emphasized the role of the Caribbean Church in promoting unity and diversity. Throughout the trip, Pope John Paul II's messages of hope and empowerment resonated deeply with the local populations, strengthening the Church's presence and mission in the region.