More than 2.5 million pilgrims came to the Basilica of Our Lady of Luján a month before the Pope's visit

More than 2.5 million people made a pilgrimage to the Basilica of Our Lady in the city of Luján, near Buenos Aires, a month before the pope's arrival, TN television reported.

“According to local authorities, more than 2.5 million people arrived (to the basilica),” the TV channel reported.

Believers make a procession to the most revered religious shrine of the country every year, but this time there were especially many people. Moreover, the pilgrimage was not hindered by bad weather - rain and strong wind, a RIA Novosti correspondent reports.

Most people traveled 60 kilometers on foot from the capital's Liniers district, on the border with Buenos Aires province.

“I think that this year so many people took part in the procession because the Pope will soon visit Argentina, he will be in Lujan. For many of us, his visit is very important, because the Pope (the Pope) last visited Argentina 40 years ago,” Buenos Aires resident Laura told RIA Novosti.

The last time the Pope came to Argentina was in 1987. It was John Paul II. Now Argentines are waiting for the visit of Pope Leo XIV. It will last from November 8 to 11.

“I believe that such a large number of pilgrims speaks of the difficult situation in the country. People who no longer count on the help of the state are asking for support from higher powers,” said Vivyana, a participant in the procession, in turn.