In a highly symbolic moment for interfaith relations, Pope Leo XIV visited Istanbul’s famed Blue Mosque, where he met Muslim leaders and joined in a moment of silence and prayer dedicated to peace, fraternity, and mutual understanding.

The visit, taking place during the Pope’s trip to Türkiye for the 1700th anniversary of the First Council of Nicaea, drew worldwide attention and produced striking images of Christian and Muslim representatives standing side by side inside one of Islam’s most iconic places of worship.

During the encounter, Pope Leo XIV stressed that authentic religion must become “a bridge of peace, never a justification for hatred or violence.” He praised efforts to strengthen dialogue between Christians and Muslims and encouraged cooperation in defending human dignity, protecting the poor, and promoting reconciliation in conflict zones.

Muslim leaders welcomed the Pope warmly, describing the visit as an important sign of friendship and respect between faith traditions. Observers noted that the atmosphere inside the Blue Mosque was marked by solemnity, mutual respect, and shared concern for global peace.

Analysts say the visit represents one of the strongest gestures of interreligious dialogue of Pope Leo XIV’s pontificate so far, reinforcing his ongoing call for unity and coexistence in an increasingly polarized world.