In the city of Buenos Aires, in a modest shoe shop, a significant piece of lore quietly unfolded, tracing back to the man who would become Pope Francis. This humble shop, known as Muglia Shoes, played a small yet intimate role in the life of Jorge Mario Bergoglio, now remembered fondly by his old neighborhood.
Unlike his predecessor, with his ornate ruby slippers, Pope Francis was known for wearing simple black shoes, an emblem of his humility which resonated with people globally. These shoes, in their unassuming nature, became symbolic of Francis’ approach to his papacy and lifestyle.
The Muglia family have been shoemakers in the Flores district since 1945, a business anchored in familial legacy. It was here, in a store adorned with cultural memorabilia like an Elvis poster and Harley Davidson motorbike, that a young Bergoglio regularly bought his footwear. Juan Jose Muglia, who runs the shop today, recounts how his grandfather sold shoes to Bergoglio during his days as a Jesuit priest in the nearby Basilica of San José de Flores.
Despite the evolution of fashion over the years, the shop retains its traditional essence, a nod to the era when the future pope was a regular patron seeking practical, durable shoes. These same shoes, favored by Francis, have influenced local clergy who, inspired by his example, also sought after them.
With Francis’ ascent to the papacy in 2013, Juan Jose Muglia offered him new shoes for his journey to the Vatican. However, due to the swelling of his feet, Francis needed a more tailored fit, yet he maintained a preference for shoes that reflected his personality and lifestyle.
Foregoing the lavish footwear choices of former pontiffs, Francis opted for simplicity, favoring black orthopedic-soled shoes over the luxurious styles once popular among his predecessors. This choice stood in stark contrast to the opulence witnessed during the Byzantine era and the more recent choices of former Pope Benedict.
The passing of Pope Francis at the age of 88 stirred a global tribute to his legacy, prompting widespread interest in his roots in Flores. His life was characterized by an effort to demystify the papacy, fostering accessibility, swapping traditional opulent attire for simple garments and ditching luxury cars for a Ford Focus.
Locally, this has translated into a renewed interest in Muglia Shoes, where a portrait of Francis recalls his influence. The neighborhood of Flores mourns with heartfelt remembrance, bringing together citizens who recall Francis’ lifelong frugality and his dedication to assisting the impoverished.
Neighbors and local vendors recount personal interactions with him, like Antonio Plastina, who shared conversations filled with Argentinean culture, politics, and soccer. Memories of Francis evoke warmth and nostalgia among those who witnessed his modest lifestyle firsthand, even as he ascended to one of the highest spiritual offices.
A poignant gathering formed outside his childhood home, where flowers and notes now commemorate the beloved leader. Local resident Alicia Gigante remembers him fondly, her recollections steeped in the kindness and approachable nature that characterized his interactions.
While the immediate surge of tributes has calmed, the impact of Pope Francis remains imprinted on the streets of Flores and the hearts of its residents, a testament to the legacy of simplicity and humility that defined his life and leadership.