The Roads of Pope Leo XIV: Peru´s new initiative to promote cultural and religious tourism

Pope Leo XIV, who adopted Peruvian nationality in 2015 after decades of pastoral work in the country, inspired a new tourist route in Peru, which includes 39 attractions linked to his religious work. The circuit, called "Roads of Pope Leo XIV," covers four destinations: Piura, Lambayeque, La Libertad, and Callao, and features renowned attractions in emblematic places where the first Peruvian pope left his mark.

Through this tourist route, promoted by the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism of Peru and PROMPERÚ, the Peruvian state agency that promotes tourism, visitors will be able to discover historic churches, sanctuaries, convents, archaeological sites, and other places that represent a unique cultural and religious tourism experience.

One of the provinces included in this itinerary is Morropón Chulucanas. Located in the Piura region in northern Peru, it was the first Peruvian destination visited by the Pope in 1985, as part of an Augustinian mission. The itinerary through Chulucanas, known for its unique black and white ceramics, includes pastoral centers and churches visited by the Holy Father, such as the Cathedral Parish of the Holy Family, the Parish of San José Obrero, and the Mother Church of Santo Domingo.

The Lambayeque region is also part of this itinerary as one of the most significant places for Pope Leo XIV, who was bishop of its capital, Chiclayo, for eight years (from 2015 to 2023), and to whose parishioners he sent a warm greeting in his first message as Supreme Pontiff.

Lambayeque is known for its important archaeological sites, natural areas, and delicious cuisine. The Pope's Route includes iconic sites in this Peruvian region, such as the Royal Tombs of Sipán Museum, which houses a magnificent display of pre-Incan artifacts linked to the discovery of the Tomb of the Lord of Sipán, an important Moche leader; the Túcume Archaeological Complex, with its 26 pyramids; the Pómac Forest Historic Sanctuary; and numerous museums and attractions.

Also included are the sites where the Pope celebrated Mass, as well as the spaces where he carried out his pastoral work and expressed his faith to the people of Lambayeque. These include the Chiclayo Cathedral, the Church of San Pedro de Monsefú, the Church of Santa Lucía de Ferreñafe, and the Convent of San Agustín.

South of Lambayeque lies La Libertad, the region where Robert Prevost lived for 11 years, beginning in 1988, serving as a seminary professor, director of studies, parish priest, and judicial vicar. The route includes five sites in this destination where the Pope passed through and left his mark: the Archbishopric of Trujillo, the Major Seminary of San Carlos and San Marcelo, the Parish of Our Lady of Montserrat, the Parish of Santa Rita de Cássia, and the Convent of Santo Tomás de Villanueva.

This destination also boasts a well-preserved historic center, unique beaches like Huanchaco, and important archaeological sites like the Chan Chan Citadel, a World Heritage Site.

The Pontiff also left fond memories in Callao, a constitutional province near Lima, the Peruvian capital, where he won the affection of the faithful for his closeness and pastoral style. There, which is also home to the country's first port, he served as apostolic administrator of the Diocese of Callao between 2020 and 2021.

For this reason, several sites that demonstrate their great devotion have been included in the tourist circuit: Callao Cathedral; the seat of the Bishopric of Callao; the Santa Rosa Parish, which houses the image of the Lord of the Sea; and the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Carmo da Légua, who was named patron saint of Callao.

This constitutional province also boasts other incredible attractions, such as Monumental Callao, which brings together history, culture, and gastronomy in its historic center; La Punta, a charming neighborhood located on the shores of the Pacific Ocean; the Real Felipe Fortress, an imposing 18th-century architectural complex; and the Palomino Islands, a natural paradise where you can observe a variety of birds and sea lions.

Source: Guanabara Agency.