Talking about Pope Francis means talking about a story of migration, resilience, and family. His journey didn’t begin at the Vatican — it started in Buenos Aires in 1936, when Jorge Mario Bergoglio was born into a family of Italian immigrants who had crossed the Atlantic in search of a better life.
The Bergoglios came from the Piemonte region in northern Italy. At the start of the 20th century, their country was going through tough times, prompting them to seek new beginnings in South America. After several failed business ventures and facing the effects of the 1929 global financial crisis, the family took a leap of faith and moved to Argentina — a decision that would shape generations to come.
Once settled in Buenos Aires, Jorge Mario’s father, Mario Bergoglio, married María Regina Sívori. Together, they had five children: Jorge Mario (Pope Francis), Alberto Horacio, Oscar Adrián, Marta Regina, and María Elena. Today, María Elena is the only sibling still alive. At 77, she lives a quiet life in Argentina, far from the media spotlight.
Does Pope Francis Have Living Sibling?
Despite the years and distance, the Pope never lost his connection with his family. Since his election in 2013, he didn’t return to Argentina, but he kept in touch with María Elena through calls and video chats. While she’s proud of her brother and what he represents, she’s chosen a simple life away from public attention.
The Bergoglio name continues to echo in different corners of society. José, María Elena’s son, founded a nonprofit called Haciendo Lío, inspired by the Pope’s call to action during World Youth Day in Brazil. The organization works to support vulnerable communities in Buenos Aires. Another family member, José Luis Narvaja, followed Francis’ spiritual path and is now a Jesuit priest.
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A Bergoglio Returns to Italy — On the Soccer Field
Then there’s Felipe Bergoglio, the Pope’s 20-year-old great-nephew. In 2023, he joined Sporting Club Trestina, a Serie D team in Italy — a symbolic homecoming to the family’s roots. While he hasn’t met his great-uncle in person yet, he plans to do so soon.
“Whenever I say my last name, people ask if I’m related to the Pope. I don’t see it as a burden, I see it as something to be proud of,” Felipe shared in interviews.
His teammates even jokingly ask for blessings before matches — something he takes with good humor.
This article was originally written in Spanish by Nayely Aguilera in Cultura Colectiva.
