Apostolic Nunciature to Libya

The Apostolic Nunciature to Libya is the diplomatic mission of the Holy See to Libya. The Apostolic Nuncio to Libya is an ecclesiastical office of the Catholic Church in Libya, with the rank of an ambassador. The nuncio serves both as the ambassador of the Holy See to the State of Libya and as delegate and point-of-contact between the Catholic hierarchy in Libya and the pope.

The Vatican established the position of Delegate to Northern Africa in 1965; John Gordon held that post until 19 August 1967. Sante Portalupi succeeded him on 27 September 1967. The delegate's responsibilities were modified as the Holy See developed relationships with countries in the delegate's area of responsibility. Portalupi took on the titles of Pro-Nuncio to Algeria and to Tunisia in 1972. When he added the title Pro-Nuncio to Morocco on 5 March 1976, his role as Delegate to North Africa was left with responsibility for Libya alone and he became Delegate to Libya.[1]