The Vatican presents the commemorative medal of Leo XIV's trip to Uruguay, Argentina and Peru

The Vatican has unveiled a commemorative medal marking Leo XIV's apostolic journey to Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru from November 6-17, 2026. The medal combines key religious, historical, and cultural symbols from the three countries, reflecting the encounter between the Pope, messenger of Christ, and Latin American cultures.

The obverse of the medal

The medal, designed by the artist Carmen Testa, has two sides. On the obverse, in the center, appears the coat of arms of Leo XIV accompanied by his motto and the inscription «LEO XIV PONTIFEX MAXIMVS» («Leo XIV, Supreme Pontiff»). The outer edge is formed by a frieze of continuous fretwork with geometric motifs of Latin American inspiration.

The reverse

The reverse side features symbols representing the three stages of the journey. The Sun of May stands out in the center, interpreted in a Christological sense as a symbol of light and unity illuminating the entire apostolic journey. To its left appears the Virgin of the Thirty-Three, patron saint of Uruguay.

At the top is the Lord of Miracles, one of the most widespread devotions in Peru. To his right are two other Peruvian emblems: the citadel of Machu Picchu and a vicuña, representing the country's natural wealth.

The lower part is dedicated to Argentina, with the image of the Virgin of Luján, patron saint of the Argentine people, next to the Obelisk of Buenos Aires, symbol of the capital.

The background incorporates a decoration inspired by pre-Columbian Andean geometries and traditional Latin American textile motifs, which serves as a common framework for the various elements. The official inscription of the voyage appears on the inner border: «VRVGVAIAM ARGENTINAM ET PERVVIAM VISIT – VI–XVII NOV. MMXXVI». («Visit to Uruguay, Argentina and Peru – November 6-17, 2025»)