The Catholic Church's highest authority,
At this meeting, the Holy Father blessed the crew and welcomed a painting of the Peruvian sailing training ship.
It begins the commemorative program for the 150th anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of Friendship, Commerce, and Navigation between Peru and Italy dated December 23, 1874.
This was a milestone in diplomatic and friendly relations between both countries, which will be celebrated throughout the year 2024 featuring various activities.
Prior to the latest event, the Peruvian training ship was welcomed with chords from the Italian Navy band and a large delegation of students from the Galileo Galilei School in Civitavecchia.
A 'Marinera' dance on the dock, made up of two young Italian-Peruvian couples, was greatly celebrated by the Union's crew before descending to the ground.
Furthermore, the crew will participate in important protocol and social outreach events in Rome and the Vatican City, highlighting among them a Papal Audience and the placing of a wreath at the foot of the Giuseppe Garibaldi monument.
The stopover at the Port of Rome marks the completion of the first stage of the Union's circumnavigation. The changeover of all naval cadets will take place in Civitavecchia.
The arrival has sparked interest throughout southern Italy, which is reflected in extensive coverage on social media, inviting the general public to visit this training ship.
The BAP Union will set sail from the coast of Lazio region on December 17 and continue its journey by visiting the Port of La Spezia from December 19 to 22.