Peru earmarks S/10 million for infrastructure ahead of first Peruvian Pope's November visit

Peruvian Minister of Foreign Trade and Tourism Berthin Gómez announced that the government will allocate roughly S/10 million to improve tourism infrastructure and basic services in the cities scheduled to host Pope Leon XIV during his historic November visit. The funding will focus on the northern regions of Lambayeque, Piura and La Libertad, with proposed upgrades to signage, facilities and public spaces to ensure a proper reception for the first Pontiff of Peruvian nationality. The ministry said the improvements are expected to bolster the local economy, increase inbound tourism and reinforce the religious identity of millions of Peruvians. Gómez noted that a meeting with President José María Balcázar is pending to finalize details of the papal itinerary, which may also include Lima, Callao and other major cities.

The planned enhancements are part of a broader “Ruta del Papa” initiative aimed at promoting sites where the future Pope served as a pastor before his election, with the government hoping the visit will generate lasting economic and cultural benefits for the country.