Pope Leo made a historic stop at Istanbul’s iconic Blue Mosque on Saturday, removing his shoes as a gesture of respect but choosing not to pray during the symbolic visit. The moment marked his first appearance in a Muslim place of worship since becoming the first U.S. pope, currently on a four-day trip to Turkey.
Guided by the mosque’s imam and the city’s mufti, Pope Leo walked through the expansive structure—capable of hosting 10,000 worshippers—smiling and engaging warmly with his hosts. Wearing only white socks inside the sacred space, he even shared a light moment with the lead muezzin, who handles the mosque’s daily call to prayer.
However, the Vatican appeared caught off guard when Leo did not pause for a moment of personal prayer, as had been expected. Officials were also surprised that Turkey’s state-run religious authority, the Diyanet, did not formally welcome him as originally planned. Hours later, the Vatican mistakenly issued a press release claiming the pope had prayed and received the scheduled greeting—statements that were later acknowledged as incorrect.
Carefully Watched First Overseas Journey
Muezzin Askin Musa Tunca told reporters that he offered the pope a private moment to pray, but Leo politely declined, stating he preferred to simply tour the historic mosque. The Vatican later said the visit was carried out “in a spirit of reflection and listening,” emphasizing respect for the site and the Muslim worshippers who gather there daily.
Despite the absence of formal prayer, Pope Leo displayed humor during the tour. As he was guided toward an exit marked “No Exit,” he smiled and pointed out the sign. “You don’t have to leave—you can stay,” Tunca replied.
Pope Leo will remain in Turkey until Sunday before continuing his trip to Lebanon, marking a closely observed first international journey for the new pontiff.
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