Pope Francis Tour in Argentina

From Flores to the Vatican: The Early Life of Pope Francis

From his childhood in the Buenos Aires neighborhood of Flores to his time in Santa Fe and Córdoba, this route invites you to discover the story of Jorge Bergoglio before he became the leader of the Catholic Church.

Flores Neighborhood in Buenos Aires

Flores is the neighborhood where Jorge Bergoglio—now known as Pope Francis—spent his early years. Located in Comuna 7, this middle-class district witnessed his childhood and spiritual awakening.

Visitors can explore the house where he grew up, the parish where he discovered his vocation, and several parks and squares that marked his early life. These sites preserve the spirit of the young porteño who would later become the first Latin American Pope.

Papal Route in Flores

Basilica of San José de Flores

The Basilica of San José de Flores is where Pope Francis felt the calling to religious life. Inaugurated in 1883, this neo-Gothic church was the place where, at age 17, he decided to devote his life to God. A plaque on the confessional commemorates that life-changing moment on September 21, 1953.

Childhood Home of Pope Francis

Just a few blocks from the Basilica, at 531 Membrillar Street, stands the site where Jorge Bergoglio grew up. While only the plot remains today, the place is filled with memories and stories that connect visitors to the early life of Pope Francis.

This experience can be enhanced by booking a tour with an official guide registered with the Buenos Aires City Tourism Board, offering deeper insights into the neighborhood and the Pope’s personal history in Buenos Aires.

Parish of San José del Talar

Located in the Agronomía neighborhood, the Parish of San José del Talar is home to the Sanctuary of Our Lady Undoer of Knots, a Marian devotion that gained popularity in Argentina thanks to Jorge Bergoglio. In the 1980s, he personally brought an image of this Virgin from Germany, encouraging its veneration in the country.

Every 8th of the month, hundreds of faithful gather at the church to honor the Virgin and ask for her intercession.

Metropolitan Cathedral of Buenos Aires

Located in front of the historic Plaza de Mayo, the Metropolitan Cathedral was where Jorge Bergoglio served as Archbishop of Buenos Aires. Inside, there is a museum dedicated to his life, showcasing personal and liturgical items used during his ministry in the city.

This neoclassical-style cathedral is not only a religious landmark, but also a reflection of Pope Francis’ spiritual and social legacy in his homeland.

These stops are essential for anyone wishing to gain a deeper understanding of Pope Francis’ life and mission in Buenos Aires. The Papal Circuit offers not only a spiritual experience, but also a rich immersion into the city’s history and culture.

Santa Fe and the Jesuit Order

The city of Santa Fe played a key role in Bergoglio’s early life. Between 1964 and 1965, he taught language and literature at the Colegio Inmaculada Concepción, serving as both a teacher and mentor.

Inmaculada Concepción School

This historic Jesuit school holds memories from the time when Bergoglio was a teacher. Walking through its classrooms and courtyards offers a glimpse into those formative years. His former residence is preserved and included in the "Jesuit Block: The Passage of Pope Francis in Santa Fe" tour, which can be arranged through the school's website.

Córdoba and the Jesuit Residence

Córdoba is also part of the journey through Pope Francis’s life. From 1990 to 1992, he lived at the Main Residence of the Society of Jesus, located in the heart of the city—a period marked by reflection and spiritual service.

Church of the Society of Jesus

A must-see for those interested in Francis’s religious life and formation. Built between 1640 and 1676, it is the oldest church in Córdoba and part of the Jesuit Block, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Visitors can book a guided tour via the official Córdoba Tourism website.

Tips for Your Journey

• Wear comfortable walking shoes.

• Don’t forget your camera to capture the best moments.

• Check the visiting hours of each site to plan your tour effectively.

How to Get to the Destinations

• To Buenos Aires: By air via Ezeiza International Airport or Jorge Newbery Airport.

• To Santa Fe: By road via the Rosario–Santa Fe Highway or by air to Sauce Viejo Airport.

• To Córdoba: By air via Ingeniero Ambrosio L.V. Taravella International Airport or by car or long-distance bus.

Follow in the footsteps of Pope Francis and connect with the story of one of the most influential spiritual leaders in the world.