Pope Leo XIV Visits Istanbul’s Blue Mosque on Historic Trip

Pope Leo XIV commenced the second day of his first foreign trip with a visit to the renowned Blue Mosque in Istanbul on March 16, 2024. This visit marks a significant gesture of respect towards Turkey’s Muslim majority, following in the footsteps of his predecessors who also honored the historic mosque. As the first American pope in history, Leo’s tour includes a scheduled visit to Lebanon, where he is expected to address themes of peace in the Middle East.

During his visit to the Blue Mosque, the pope was welcomed by Asgin Tunca, the mosque’s imam, who extended an invitation for him to pray. Tunca later shared with reporters that he told the pope, “It’s not my house, not your house, (it’s the) house of Allah.” Despite the offer, Pope Leo XIV declined to pray, expressing a desire to appreciate the mosque’s atmosphere instead. Tunca remarked that the pope seemed pleased with his visit.

Pope’s Engagement with Turkey’s Religious Heritage

The Vatican stated that Pope Leo XIV would observe a “brief minute of silent prayer” during his time at the mosque. He was guided through the structure by the head of Turkey’s Diyanet, the religious affairs directorate, who highlighted the mosque’s stunning blue-tiled dome and rich architectural history.

The significance of this visit is underscored by the pope’s intention to foster dialogue and understanding between different faiths. By acknowledging the Blue Mosque, a symbol of Islamic heritage, he reinforces the Vatican’s commitment to interfaith relations, particularly in a region that has seen prolonged conflict and division.

Pope Leo XIV’s itinerary reflects a broader mission of peace and reconciliation. His visit to Lebanon, following the trip to Turkey, is expected to further emphasize these themes, addressing the ongoing challenges faced by communities in the Middle East.

The pope’s engagement in Turkey serves as a reminder of the importance of mutual respect and understanding among diverse cultures and religions. As he continues his journey, the eyes of the world will be on his efforts to bridge divides and promote harmony.