In a special audience held in Vatican City, Pope Leo XIV received two ceramic pieces representing the renowned artistic tradition of Chulucanas, in the Piura region. The pieces were crafted by artisans supported by CITE Cerámica Chulucanas and presented by Father Martín Quintana, parish priest of Santa María de Parcona Church in Ica.
As a tribute to the talent and cultural identity promoted by this technological innovation center, the gifts included a ceramic image of the Holy Father and a figure of the Peruvian hairless dog, both cultural icons that showcase the mastery, technique, and artistic sensitivity of Chulucanas’ ceramic artisans.
Mario Rubio, executive director of Center for Productive Innovation and Technological Transfer (CITE) Cerámica Chulucanas, shared the message conveyed by Father Quintana, who expressed the Pope’s joy and gratitude.
"The Holy Father asked me to tell you that he is very happy. When he received the gift and learned it came from Chulucanas, he was delighted. He said he would place it in a special spot in his room. He sends his blessing to you and everyone who creates these wonders. He truly loved the ceramics made with such care," said Father Quintana.
This symbolic gesture reinforces the international presence of Chulucanas ceramics and the commitment of CITE Cerámica Chulucanas to promoting, preserving, and sharing Peruvian craftsmanship as a vital part of the nation’s living cultural heritage.
The Pope Leo XIV Trail
The Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism (Mincetur) continues to promote The Pope Leo XIV Trail, an initiative aimed at highlighting the territories and experiences connected to the Pope’s life in Peru. The project seeks to boost tourism and local cultural development through meaningful faith-based and heritage experiences.
This route includes sites linked to the work of CITE Sipán and CITE Cerámica Chulucanas, both of which play a key role in strengthening cultural identity, fostering artisanal innovation, and sharing traditional crafts with the world.