The Embassy of El Salvador to the Holy See recently marked the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II with a special tribute to Colonel José Arturo Castellanos, a Salvadoran diplomat who saved thousands of Jews during the Holocaust. The event took place at the Basilica of Sant’Antonio al Laterano in Rome and featured El Rescate: un film-concierto, a unique blend of documentary film and live music produced by Álvaro and Boris Castellanos.

Presented as part of the 2025 Jubilee Year “Pilgrims of Hope,” the tribute highlighted Castellanos’ role as consul general in Geneva, where he issued Salvadoran nationality certificates to Jews fleeing Nazi persecution—saving around 40,000 lives.

Ambassador Anabella Machuca described Castellanos as “an example of integrity and moral courage who honors the essence of diplomacy in service of humanity.” She emphasized that he acted “without weapons or political power—only a heart willing to take risks.”

The event drew over a hundred attendees, including Vatican officials, diplomats, and members of the Salvadoran community. The presence of Ruth Castellanos, the diplomat’s only surviving daughter, gave the occasion added meaning.

In 2010, Castellanos was recognized by Yad Vashem as “Righteous Among the Nations,” and a street in Jerusalem now bears his name, a lasting tribute to his legacy and El Salvador’s historic role in standing for humanity.