Pope Francis rejects luxury for humble shoes from Buenos Aires

In Buenos Aires, Argentina, the late Pope Francis was known for his fondness for simple leather shoes made by the Muglia family, who have been cobblers in the Flores neighborhood for generations. As a young man, Jorge Mario Bergoglio, who became Pope Francis, frequently bought his shoes from this local shop, establishing a tradition that locals cherished. His preference for these ordinary loafers reflected his humble lifestyle and dedication to accessibility, which he upheld throughout his papacy after being elected in 2013. Unlike traditional papal apparel, Francis opted for black shoes with orthopedic soles, signaling a departure from past extravagance. This choice received attention when he became pope, as it suited his image of not embracing the luxurious trappings typically associated with the papacy. His simple footwear became a symbol of his commitment to a life of service to the least fortunate, drawing many visitors to Flores who wanted to connect with the cobbler and understand the man behind the papal title. As news of Francis's passing spread, a wave of nostalgia and respect from his community surfaced, leading to crowds gathering to honor his memory at his childhood home. The local cobbler, Juan Jose Muglia, recounted how Francis maintained his roots, frequently visiting the neighborhood and interacting with residents. His shoes not only reflected his personality but inspired local priests and residents. Following his death, many sought to commemorate the legacy of a pontiff who reminded the world about the power of humility.