Ever since Pope Francis’ election to the papacy, lots of global attention has turned to his birthplace of Argentina, which has a rich religious history throughout the country. In Tilde, for example, the 14 Stations of the Cross are displayed year round to honor Jesus’ crucifixion, and thousands flock to the town during Holy Week to celebrate (how Argentines celebrate Holy Week). Buenos Aires is filled with historically relevant churches, and Salta is known for its rich Christian past. Cordoba, however, has a distinct character due to the Jesuits’ influence on the city, and most visitors make a point to take a tour of the Jesuit block.  Though Pope Francis is “porteño”, he also spent time practicing his teachings in Cordoba.

Pope Francis Pope Francis / source
Pope Francis’ name derives from an Italian saint who was highly revered for his devotion to a simple lifestyle and dedication to the poverty-stricken. Bergoglio entered the Society of Jesus in 1958 and studied to become a priest at the Jesuit seminary in Villa Devoto. As he obtained his position as Cardinal of the Catholic Church, he decided to abstain from using his right to a chauffeured limousine, instead opting to use public transportation and living in a small apartment.  He went to Germany to complete his doctoral dissertation and came back to Argentina to serve as spiritual director in Cordoba.

Though in Spanish, check out the video to catch a glimpse of where the Pope used to live and those who interacted him.

Follow in the footsteps of Argentina's Pope Francis and visit the Jesuit Missions in Cordoba with a Jesuit History Tour or visit a Jesuit Estancia.  For more tours and activities in Cordoba, visit our website!