# Uruguay Welcomes Pope León XIV After 38 Years

> Pope León XIV arrives in Montevideo, marking Uruguay's first papal visit in 38 years.
- Title: Uruguay Welcomes Pope León XIV After 38 Years · Ambito
- Summary: Pope León XIV arrives in Montevideo, marking Uruguay's first papal visit in 38 years.
- Keywords: uruguay, pope león xiv, plaza independencia, juan pablo ii, artigas, religious visit, democracy, social responsibility, Ambito
- Source: Ambito — https://ambito.com/uruguay/el-dia-que-volvio-mirar-al-cielo-leon-xiv-una-multitud-y-38-anos-espera-n6342667
- Author: Fabián Cardozo
- Published: 2026-11-07T00:46:00+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: uruguay, pope león xiv, plaza independencia, juan pablo ii, artigas, religious visit, democracy, social responsibility, business, money
## Pope León XIV Arrives in Montevideo
Pope León XIV landed in Montevideo at 16:19 on Friday, marking his first visit to Uruguay in 38 years.

> Encantado de estar aquí
## First Public Meeting at Plaza Independencia
Pope León XIV met with Uruguayan President Yamandú Orsi and other officials at Plaza Independencia.
## Religious and Political Unity
The event included 250 artists, social groups, and representatives of vulnerable communities.
## Pope's Reference to Artigas
Pope León XIV highlighted Artigas' legacy, emphasizing community and shared sovereignty.

> Mi autoridad emana de vosotros y ella cesa por vuestra presencia soberana
## Pope's Social Message
Pope León XIV addressed water crises, AI challenges, and mental health in Uruguay.
## 30,000 Attend the Ceremony
Approximately 30,000 people attended the ceremony, reflecting Uruguay's diverse population.
## Pope's Call for Social Responsibility
Pope León XIV urged stronger healthcare, community bonds, and respect for vulnerable groups.
## Historical Context of the Visit
This visit follows Juan Pablo II's 1988 visit, which had a lasting impact on Uruguay.
## Pope's Message on Democracy
Pope León XIV praised Uruguay's democratic values while addressing social challenges.
## The Visit's Significance
The visit highlights Uruguay's secular identity and its ability to welcome religious leaders.
## Pope's Final Message
Pope León XIV emphasized unity and shared responsibility for a just society.
## Key takeaway

Pope León XIV spoke at Plaza Independencia in Montevideo, emphasizing Artigas' legacy and social responsibility after 38 years since Juan Pablo II's last visit.