Vatican city: A significant event was held at the Palazzo della Cancelleria in the Vatican, showcasing the collaborative projects between the Vatican and the Heydar Aliyev Foundation. The presentation, attended by dignitaries from the Holy See, Italy, and various scientific, political, and public figures, highlighted the history and successes of the partnership since 2012.
According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the event featured the unveiling of “Pontes Culturae” (Bridges of Culture), a publication detailing these joint projects, and a documentary film that underscored the friendship and cooperation between Azerbaijan and the Vatican. The projects focus on cultural-humanitarian initiatives and the restoration of historical and religious heritage sites.
The “Pontes Culturae” book was a collaborative effort between the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, the Vatican’s Pontifical Commission for Sacred Archaeology, and the Azerbaijani Embassy to the Holy See. This publication, first presented to Pope Leo XIV in October 2025, offers insights into the longstanding relationship between the two states, emphasizing National Leader Heydar Aliyev’s pivotal 1997 visit to the Vatican.
The event also celebrated the Foundation’s role in restoring the Vatican’s catacombs, digitizing manuscripts, and working on various restoration projects within the Vatican Museums and basilicas. The collaboration extends to the Holy See’s Bambino Ges¹ Pediatric Hospital, illustrating a broad spectrum of cultural and humanitarian engagement.
During the ceremony, gratitude was expressed to Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and Mehriban Aliyeva, President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, for fostering this international partnership. Ilgar Mukhtarov, Azerbaijan’s Ambassador to the Holy See, highlighted the Foundation’s global efforts to preserve cultural heritage, which not only protect architectural monuments but also honor collective human history.
Pasquale Iacobone, President of the Pontifical Commission for Sacred Archaeology, praised the sustainable and progressive nature of the cooperation. He emphasized the restoration work’s importance for humanity, noting the scientific and technological advancements achieved through these projects.
Giovanni Cesare Pagazzi, Archivist and Librarian of the Holy Roman Church, remarked on the role of libraries and archives in fostering cultural dialogue, suggesting that support for such institutions contributes to peace and mutual understanding.
Anar Alakbarov, Executive Director of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, spoke about ongoing and future restoration projects, including new contracts for monuments within the Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls. He reiterated the Foundation’s commitment to cultural heritage preservation globally.
The event concluded with the display of a triptych carpet composition from the “Heavenly Religions” project, symbolizing the shared values of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. This initiative reflects the universal values of peace, mercy, and justice, rooted in Azerbaijani cultural diplomacy.