If you’re looking to connect with the roots of Pope Francis, Argentina is the place to start. Before becoming the leader of the Catholic Church, Jorge Mario Bergoglio lived a humble life in Buenos Aires. This guide will take you through the key places that shaped him — perfect for anyone planning a spiritual trip or just curious about his story.
Flores neighborhood: Where it all began
The journey kicks off in Flores, a quiet middle-class neighborhood in Buenos Aires. It’s here that Pope Francis was born on December 17, 1936. His confirmed birthplace is 268 Varela Street. Some early reports mentioned 531 Membrillar Street, but historical research has clarified that Membrillar was a later residence during his youth.
Walking around Flores, you can imagine the simplicity of his early life. The area still feels authentic and untouristy — like stepping back in time. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a local who remembers stories from the neighborhood back in the day.
Right across the street, there’s a little plaza where Pope Francis used to play fútbol as a kid. Yeah, even back then he was already a die-hard San Lorenzo fan — the team folks here still call “Los Santos.” After he became Pope, the team printed his face on their jerseys for the next match. They won 1–0… thanks to an own goal from the other team. Around here, no one doubts it was a miracle.
The final stop on this local journey is the Misericordia kindergarten. That’s where he made his first communion and learned how to count to 10, jumping down the entrance steps as a little kid.
He later came back as the Archbishop of Buenos Aires. “They still remember him helping out washing dishes,” says Vega, a teacher from back then.
It’s little stories like these that explain why Pope Francis has his own tour around town.
Basilica of San José de Flores
Just a few blocks from his childhood home, you’ll find the Basilica of San José de Flores. This church holds a special place in his life — it’s where Pope Francis felt his religious calling at the age of 17. You can still visit it today, and many pilgrims stop here to reflect or attend mass. The church also hosts events and tours about his spiritual journey.
Where he worked and studied
Pope Francis worked as a bar bouncer and janitor while studying chemistry — pretty wild, right? But he later joined the seminary and taught literature, psychology, and theology. One of the key places tied to his early work life is the Inmaculada Concepción School, where he taught in the early ’60s. These places show his deep connection to education and community life.
Club Atlético San Lorenzo: The soccer love
If you know Pope Francis, you know he loved fútbol. And his team? San Lorenzo de Almagro. He’s been a fan since childhood. You can visit the Estadio Pedro Bidegain, also known as the Nuevo Gasómetro, to really feel the energy of the club he supported.
San Lorenzo even gifted him a jersey with his name on it after he became Pope. The connection between faith and fútbol runs deep in Argentina — and in him.
Other key stops
- Escuela Técnica Hipólito Yrigoyen – His high school where he studied chemistry.
- Jesuit headquarters in San Miguel – Where he lived and worked as a seminary rector.
- Buenos Aires Cathedral – As Archbishop, this was his seat of power. Located right in the city center at Plaza de Mayo.
Walking the pope Francis route
If you’re planning a trip, you can explore these places over 2–3 days. Start with Flores, move through his school and work spots, and end your pilgrimage at the Buenos Aires Cathedral. It’s a meaningful route filled with moments of faith, humility, and real Argentine life.
Plan your own Papal pilgrimage
Wanna walk in the Pope’s footsteps? Hit up www.nosfui.com and get your trip mapped out with our AI-powered travel assistant. We’ll hook you up with personalized routes, budget-friendly plans, and all the hidden gems you might miss.
And for daily tips, places, and real traveler vibes, follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nosfuitravel
