17 May
The election of Pope Leo XIV positioned the destination Chiclayo
The recent election of Roberto Francisco Prevost as the new Pope Leo XIV has marked a historic milestone for the Catholic Church, but it has also positioned the city of Chiclayo on the international stage. The Supreme Pontiff resided for decades in the northern Peruvian city, where he played an important role as bishop.
Pope Leo XIV’s pastoral work in Peru has aroused the interest of different tourist markets, placing the northern coast of Peru, especially the Lambayeque region, in the sights of a multitude of Catholic faithful and visitors.
In this context, the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism (MINCETUR) together with the Ministry of Economy and Finance (MEF) and local authorities are designing the Pope Leo XIV Tourist Route. The purpose of this proposal is to promote and consolidate religious tourism. Within this proposal, the attractions of Chiclayo, Saña, Etén and Motupe are being prioritised.
Within the route proposed by MINCETUR, Puerto Etén stands out as one of the key points. The recent declaration by the government as a Eucharistic City recognises its strong link with the Catholic faith, especially for events such as the ‘Eucharistic Miracle’. This designation not only values its religious significance, but also seeks to activate its economy through tourism and enhance its local identity.
On the other hand, Chiclayo offers much more than religious history. Known as the ‘Capital of Friendship’, it is famous for its varied and tasty gastronomy. Dishes such as arroz con pato (rice with duck), cabrito (kid) or espesado show a mixture of ancestral and popular culinary traditions.
The city is also a starting point to important archaeological and natural sites. Among the most visited are the Royal Tombs of Sipán Museum, the Forest of Pómac, the National Museum of Sicán, the weavings of Monsefú and the beaches of Pimentel, which offer the visitor culture, nature and relaxation.
Although Lambayeque does not yet have a concrete plan for religious tourism, the creation of this route represents an opportunity to organise efforts, attract investment and strengthen traditional celebrations such as the Motupe Cross, Holy Week in Saña or the pilgrimages to Etén.
With all this, Chiclayo is emerging as a complete destination, where spirituality, cultural heritage, unique flavours and hospitality converge, reinforcing its image at the international level thanks to the legacy of the new Pope Leo XIV.
Source: Infobae (2025)
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