Leo XIV concludes Argentina visit and heads to Peru
Javier Milei attended the airport farewell after a four-day papal visit, Argentina’s first in 39 years.
Pope Leo XIV left Argentina for Peru on November 11, 2026, following four days of engagements that ended with Mass at the Basilica of Luján. President Javier Milei accompanied him to his aircraft at Ezeiza airport.
La Nación said Milei was in tears during the departure ceremony. Karina Milei, his sister and presidential chief of staff, and Foreign Minister Pablo Quirno also attended the farewell.
Argentina had not received a papal visit for 39 years. Argentine media, citing official figures, reported attendance of more than three million at the Luján Mass, but the estimate has not been independently verified. Leo also presented the basilica with a Golden Rose, the Vatican’s highest honor for Marian shrines.
Before the Mass, the pontiff went to Devoto prison in Buenos Aires, listening to some 70 inmates. His Argentina trip took place after tensions over austerity policies between the government and Catholic leaders. In his initial address to authorities, Leo emphasized that the economy should serve people.
President Keiko Fujimori is to receive Leo at Lima’s Government Palace during the Peruvian leg of his tour. Planned stops include Chiclayo, Cusco and Pucallpa between November 13 and 16. His return to Rome is set for November 16.
