Pope Leo XIV marked the first event of his Apostolic Journey to Argentina with a solemn stop in Buenos Aires at the Monument to General José de San Martín and the Armies of Independence. Following the playing of national anthems and a military wreath-laying ceremony, the Pope paused for a moment of silent reflection.
The Grand Chancellor welcomed the pontiff, accompanying him past an honor guard and gathered delegations in Plaza San Martín, located in the capital’s Retiro neighborhood. The bronze equestrian monument honors General José de San Martín, celebrated as the Liberator of Argentina, Chile, and Peru.
The historic site holds deep significance for the region. In 1807, local militias successfully defended the area against a British expeditionary force during the second British invasion of the Río de la Plata, and San Martín later established the barracks of the Regiment of Mounted Grenadiers there in 1812.
Named in honor of the Liberator in 1878 during his birth centenary, the square underwent redesigns by architect Charles Thays in the late 19th century. During this period, prominent Buenos Aires families also established grand residences around the plaza, including the San Martín, Haedo, and Paz palaces.