Since day one, Pope Francis has fascinated the world. He's the first Jesuit Pope, the first Pope from the Americas and he is a son of immigrants. Here are nine other things you should know about Pope Francis:
1. He speaks 7 languages
According to the National Catholic Reporter, Pope Francis is fluent in Spanish and Italian, but can speak some English, Latin, French, German and Portuguese.
2. He was known for taking the bus, subway
The Pope is regarded for his commitment to the poor. One example of that commitment is that he rode the bus, instead of a lavished vehicle, or limousine.
3. He cooks his own meals
List25.com reports, Pope Francis made his own meals, even though he had access to a renowned Archbishop chef as a Cardinal.
4. He only has one lung
The Pontiff had part of his right lung removed due to an infection during his youth. According to TIME, the Pope can function with only one lung, but he might be at a slightly higher risk of complications from the flu, or getting pneumonia.
5. He loves soccer
Pope Francis is a proud supporter of San Lorenzo de Almagro Football club, a traditional team from his home neighborhood. His Holieness has an impressive collection of soccer jerseys, as presidents, dignitaries, celebrities and pilgrims give him personalized ones.
6. He used to play basketball
The Pope played basketball as a teenager, following in his father's footsteps who played for San Lorenzo. He also received many basketball jerseys, including a personalized one of the Boston Celtics.
7. He likes tangos
As a true Argentine, the Pontiff is fond of the tango. According to The Guardian, thousands of people danced the tango in St. Peter's Square to celebrate Pope Francis' 78th birthday.
8. He used to be a club bouncer
His Holiness worked as a bouncer in Buenos Aires at a local night club. Other former jobs include sweeping floors, working in a chemistry lab, and teaching literature and psychology.
9. He's a fan of J.R.R. Tolkien
Pope Francis has read his works and according to List25.com, he grew fond of Frodo and Bilbo uses them as examples of "hopeful heroes who are called to walk a path in the drama between good and evil."
