The painting exhibition "L'Islam e la preghiera" (Islam and Prayer) by famous painter Luigi Ballarin has been opened to visitor at Yunus Emre Institute's Rome Branch.

Delivering a keynote speech during the program, Ambassador of Turkey to the Holy See Lütfullah Göktaş indicated that it was significant that the opening of the exhibition coincided with the holy month of Ramadan, and prayers, common to all religions, serve to embolden the love for humanity.

During the ceremony, famous art critic Luigi Salerno gave information on Luigi Ballarin and make special comments on the exhibition.

The event was also attended by Ambassador of Cambodia Prince Ravivaddhana Monipong Sisowath, Cultural Ambassador of Afghanistan to Europe Princess India d'Afghanistan, Ambassador of San Marino Giorgio Girelli and many art lovers, and the fast-breaking (iftar) dinner consisting of special Turkish dishes was given at the end of the program.

Mosques, whirling dervishes, mass prayers, prayer rugs, prayer beads and other elements of Islamic rites are featured in the exhibition which will be open to visitors between May 9 and 26.