Pope Leo XIV arrived in Peru on Wednesday, a nostalgic return to the nation where he spent two decades as a missionary before being tapped to lead the world's 1.4 billion Catholics.
The 71-year-old pontiff landed in Lima on the final leg of an arduous 12-day Latin American tour, just weeks after undergoing surgery for lung cancer.
"He is coming home," said 32-year-old street vendor Alexander Torres in the Peruvian capital. "He will be welcomed as if he never left the country."
"The pope is Peruvian!" cried some of the faithful, who lined the streets dozens-deep along the route from the airport, as phalanxes of soldiers in red and green berets stood guard.
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The pope began the day in Lujan, Argentina, drawing more than three million people for a mass that was part farewell, part homage to his late Argentine predecessor, Pope Francis.
"Thank you, Argentina, for welcoming me with open arms," he said, addressing the largest crowd of his 18-month papacy.
The faithful climbed fences, barriers, trees and lampposts to catch a glimpse of their spiritual guide.
"It was a unique, unforgettable experience," Daiana Rivero, 36, told AFP.
