Pope Leon XIV's Upcoming Peru Visit to Feature Official Andean Song

The Instituto Nacional de Radio y Televisión del Perú (IRTP), together with the Peruvian Episcopal Conference and the Archdiocese of Lima, organized a national contest called “León de la Esperanza”. Out of 394 submissions from 23 regions, the song “León, hermano del camino” – composed by Peruvian musician Jaime Montoya and performed by the chorus Aguchita – was selected as the official anthem for Pope Leon XIV’s apostolic visit scheduled for November.

During the award ceremony at Lima’s Municipal Theatre, Cardinal Carlos Castillo presented the prize and noted that the contest aims to unite Peruvians through music and prepare the country for the Pope’s arrival. Pope Leon XIV sent a letter to Cardinal Castillo praising the piece, writing “¡Muy bonita la canción!” (Italian: “Molto bella, la canzone!”). The winning composer will have the opportunity to perform the song before the Pope, and the anthem will be broadcast during activities in the four Peruvian cities the pontiff will visit.

The event was attended by government ministers, cultural officials, and media representatives, underscoring its national cultural significance.