RismadarVoice Reporters
November 12, 2026
Pope Leo XIV has received a massive welcome in Peru, where an estimated three million people gathered to celebrate his return to the country he considers his second homeland.
The 71-year-old pontiff arrived in Lima on Wednesday, November 11, for the final leg of his apostolic journey to South America, following visits to Uruguay and Argentina.
According to Vatican estimates, approximately three million people lined the streets of Lima, waving flags and cheering as the Pope travelled through the capital.
The visit marks an emotional homecoming for the American-born pontiff, who spent more than two decades serving as a missionary priest and bishop in Peru.
Born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago, Pope Leo XIV acquired Peruvian citizenship in 2015 and served as Bishop of Chiclayo from 2015 to 2023.
Addressing government officials, diplomats and civil society representatives at Lima’s Gran Teatro Nacional, the Pope expressed gratitude for the experiences that shaped his religious vocation.
He described Peru as a homeland that had profoundly influenced his personal and spiritual journey.
The pontiff was officially welcomed by Peruvian President Keiko Fujimori, with whom he discussed national reconciliation, democratic responsibility and the importance of rebuilding public trust.
During his address, Pope Leo urged political leaders to promote honesty, integrity and dialogue while confronting divisions arising from Peru’s turbulent political history.
He also encouraged authorities to address historical grievances with justice and sensitivity, emphasising the importance of reconciliation and mutual respect.
The Pope’s visit comes weeks after he underwent surgery for lung cancer on October 13.
The Vatican subsequently confirmed that the disease was localised and that medical examinations showed no need for additional cancer treatment.
His doctors also cleared him to undertake the demanding South American journey.
As part of the visit, Pope Leo is expected to return to Chiclayo, where he previously served as bishop and remains widely admired by local Catholics.
His itinerary also includes engagements in Cusco and Pucallpa, where he is scheduled to meet religious communities and representatives of Indigenous populations.
Peruvian authorities have organised extensive security and logistical arrangements to accommodate the large crowds expected throughout the visit.
The Pope is scheduled to conclude his stay with a major public Mass in Lima on November 16 before returning to Rome.
His homecoming has drawn widespread attention, reflecting the strong personal and religious connections he developed during his years of service in Peru.
