3 million people took to the streets: the frenzy in Peru around the Pope

About three million people flooded the streets of Peru to welcome Pope Leo XIV, who returned to the country where he served as a priest and bishop. The Vatican estimates this is the largest crowd of his papacy, surpassing 2.5 million in Argentina.

About three million people flooded the streets of Peru to welcome Pope Leo XIV, who returned to the country where he previously served as a priest and bishop. The Vatican estimates this is the largest crowd seen so far during his papacy, surpassing the 2.5 million participants at the Mass he held in Argentina earlier this week. In his speech to the political leadership, the Pope described the visit as a return to his homeland and spoke of his deep connection to the locals. The visit will also include the cities of Cusco and Chiclayo, and he is expected to receive a new Peruvian identity card. The article describes the Pope's extensive work in Peru, including distributing food during the coronavirus pandemic, raising funds to purchase oxygen plants, assisting in natural disasters, and addressing the migration crisis of Venezuelan citizens. His work in South America led to his appointment to senior Vatican positions by Pope Francis and his election in the 2025 conclave.