Argentina marks 50 years since martyrdom of Beatos Riojanos

Governor Ricardo Quintela visited the newly opened Parque Temático Turístico Memoria y Martirio in Punta de los Llanos, a site built on the spot where Monseñor Enrique Angelelli was assassinated in 1976. The visit was part of the nationwide commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the martyrdom of Angelelli, Carlos de Dios Murias, Gabriel Longueville and Wenceslao Pedernera.

Bishop Dante Braida described the day as a “serene joy,” noting the participation of thousands of pilgrims from across La Rioja and the country. He emphasized that honoring the martyrs means living out their legacy of social justice, solidarity and service. The events included a mass presided over by Archbishop Colombo, cultural performances, artistic exhibitions, and activities for children at the park’s interpretation centre.

Governor Quintela used the occasion to call for unity within the Peronist movement, urging political leaders to follow the martyrs’ example of dialogue and collective responsibility. The park aims to preserve the memory of the Beatos Riojanos as a cultural and educational heritage for future generations.