Peru Unveils Massive 46-Foot Statue of Pope Leo XIV Ahead of Historic Papal Visit
A towering 46-foot statue of Pope Leo XIV has been unveiled in Peru, drawing cheering crowds as the South American nation prepares to welcome the pontiff back to a country he once called home.
The massive monument, standing approximately 14 metres tall, was officially unveiled on Monday, 9 November 2026, in the coastal city of Callao, near the capital, Lima.
The sculpture depicts Pope Leo XIV dressed in traditional papal robes, with both arms extended outward in a welcoming gesture. Its enormous size and striking white appearance have attracted international attention, with footage of the unveiling circulating across social media.
According to Reuters, the monument is being described by local authorities as the world's tallest sculpture dedicated to a pope.
Built in Just 45 Days
The impressive structure was completed in only 45 days by Peruvian sculptors Rafael Gutiérrez and Deyvi Wong, working alongside a team of artisans.
Constructed using steel, fibreglass and resin, the monument features a marble-like finish and carefully sculpted facial details intended to capture the pontiff's likeness.
The statue itself measures approximately 10 metres, while its pedestal adds another four metres to the overall height.
Workers transported sections of the sculpture through Lima before using cranes to assemble the enormous structure at its final location overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
The project was funded through a donation from Peruvian financial institution Caja Huancayo.
A Special Connection to Peru
Although Pope Leo XIV was born in Chicago, United States, he shares a particularly strong connection with Peru.
Before becoming head of the Roman Catholic Church, he spent more than two decades serving in the country as a missionary and religious leader.
He later became Bishop of Chiclayo and also served as apostolic administrator of the Diocese of Callao between 2020 and 2021.
The pontiff, formerly known as Robert Francis Prevost, obtained Peruvian citizenship in 2015.
For many Peruvians, his return represents more than an official papal visit. It is being celebrated as the homecoming of a religious leader who dedicated much of his life to serving their communities.
Crowds Celebrate Unveiling
Hundreds of residents gathered for the unveiling ceremony, which featured religious representatives, local officials and musical performances.
A children's choir performed as the monument was revealed, while attendees expressed excitement about the pope's return.
Callao Mayor César Pérez described the sculpture as a historic tribute and a symbol of the city's appreciation for the pontiff.
Local authorities also hope the monument will become a permanent attraction for visitors and a gathering place for families.
A Message of Peace
Beyond its religious significance, the statue is intended to promote unity and peace in Callao, a port city that has faced challenges involving violent crime.
One of the sculptors, Deyvi Wong, expressed hope that the monument would communicate a message of peace among residents.
Church officials have similarly emphasised the importance of harmony, solidarity and community cooperation.
Pope's Historic Return
Pope Leo XIV is scheduled to arrive in Peru on Wednesday, 11 November, for the final stage of his South American tour, which has included Uruguay and Argentina.
His six-day visit is expected to include Lima, Chiclayo, Cusco and Pucallpa, with large crowds anticipated at religious gatherings.
The visit carries particular historical significance because Leo XIV is the first pope born in the United States, while also holding Peruvian citizenship.
As Peru prepares to welcome him, the enormous statue in Callao stands as a visible expression of the country's affection for a religious leader whose personal history is deeply connected to its people.
For the residents who gathered beneath the monument's outstretched arms, the unveiling marked not only the arrival of a new landmark but also the celebration of a long-awaited homecoming.