---
title: Pope highlights Argentine culture in first speech
url: https://www.faithfulnews.com/en/pope-highlights-argentine-culture-in-first-speech
published: 2026-11-12T15:48:41+00:00
language: en
section: Culture and Ideas
source: https://www.religiondigital.org/america/martin-fierro-borges-gardel-citas-tango-papa-leonxiv-argentina_1_1472521.html
organizations: Argentina, Borges, Citas, Coraz, Culturales, Fierro
publisher: FaithfulNews
---

# Pope highlights Argentine culture in first speech

Pope León XIV referenced the ‘Martín Fierro’ by José Hernández, the works of Jorge Luis Borges, and the tango of Carlos Gardel during his inaugural address to the authorities of Argentina. He emphasized the rich cultural heritage of the nation, stating, "Argentina has been able to express itself with a recognizable voice far beyond its borders" at the Palacio Libertad in Buenos Aires on the first day of his visit.

In addition to the literary references, León XIV acknowledged the musical traditions from the interior of the country and the significance of the shared ‘mate’ as an example of Argentine culture. He described the tango as a cultural expression that emerged from the convergence of neighborhoods, ports, and diverse origins.

The Pope also highlighted the importance of theater, acknowledging a cultural identity that transcends Buenos Aires, enriched by various regional expressions. He dedicated a special mention to ‘mate’, one of Argentina's most cherished customs, which he characterized as a simple yet meaningful gesture that transforms a pause into an opportunity for conversation and closeness.

León XIV quoted Gardel’s famous tango line, "Life is but a breath," using it to reflect on the passage of time and the legacy transmitted between generations. He concluded by affirming, "Life is but a breath, but the good that each generation has been able to safeguard and transmit endures."

## This story in other languages

- [Deutsch](https://www.faithfulnews.com/de/papst-leon-xiv-zitiert-kulturelle-schatze-argentiniens)
- [Polski](https://www.faithfulnews.com/pl/papiez-leon-xiv-przywoluje-borgesow-gardela-i-martina-fierro-w-przemowieniu-w-argentynie)