Baku:Holy See The opening ceremony of an Azerbaijani carpet exhibition dedicated to Judaism, Christianity, and Islam was held as part of the “Heavenly Religions” project.
According to Azeri-Press news agency, Leyla Aliyeva, Vice-President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, and Alena Aliyeva attended the event. During the ceremony, Sister Raffaella Petrini, President of the Governorate of Vatican City State, emphasized the role of culture and memory in fostering peace. She highlighted the exhibition’s aim to facilitate dialogue among various religions, peoples, and cultures while celebrating Azerbaijan’s rich carpet weaving tradition.
The Azerbaijani Ambassador to the Holy See, Ilgar Mukhtarov, stressed the historical significance of carpets in Azerbaijan’s cultural heritage. He mentioned that Azerbaijan has long been a pivotal connection on the Silk Road, contributing to silk production and carpet weaving. Mukhtarov noted that the three exhibited carpets form a unique artistic triptych focusing on universal human values, achieved through a synthesis of faith, dialogue, and tolerance over eight years.
Barbara Jatta, Director of the Vatican Museums, remarked on the exhibition’s location in the prestigious Museum Anima Mundi, which represents the world’s four continents. She expressed the museum’s goal, in collaboration with the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, to unite diverse cultures and faiths through these artworks.
Amina Melikova, Director of the National Carpet Museum, reflected on the exhibition’s significance for Azerbaijani carpet weaving, noting that 28 women contributed to the “Heavenly Religions” project over eight years. She underscored the carpets as symbols of Azerbaijani spirit and national craftsmanship, embodying peace and unity across different faiths.
Guests at the event toured the exhibition, where the carpets dedicated to Judaism, Christianity, and Islam were displayed. These works encapsulate the philosophical depth and cultural diplomacy strategy integral to Azerbaijani culture, representing shared human values of peace, mercy, and justice.