Extraordinarily, Mahir AKKAYA was received twice in audience by His Holiness Pope Francis at the Vatican. The first time to personally present the painting “Jesus Bearing the Sacred Heart” to the Pope, and the second time, Mahir AKKAYA was invited by His Holiness Pope Francis at the Vatican to receive a letter of thanks in person for his gift. It was a first: an official ceremony was organized in the presence of the Vatican’s communication service. Indeed, never before had Pope Francis had the opportunity to examine such a gift with his own hands. He chose to display it in the Paul VI Audience Hall, a prestigious and iconic venue that can accommodate up to 12,000 people a day.

During the presentation of these works of art, Mahir AKKAYA was also welcomed by the highest dignitaries of the greatest Christian pilgrimage sites in the world, where millions of pilgrims and visitors gather every year. He was personally received by the rectors, archbishops, and curators of the museums of seven prestigious sites: the Vatican (Italy), the Sanctuary of Lourdes (France), the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela (Spain), the Sanctuary of Fatima (Portugal), the martyr village of Oradour-sur-Glane (France), the Sanctuary of Mont Sainte-Odile (France), and the Basilica of Saint-Laurent-sur-Sèvre (France).

Furthermore, these works were the subject of an official donation agreement. In an unprecedented move, the letter also specifies that the sanctuaries are now open to receiving other paintings as part of a sponsorship initiative.

As a gesture of recognition, these dignitaries presented him with letters of thanks as well as honorary medals for his donations. He is happy and honored to know that millions of tourists and pilgrims can now admire these works. For him, this is the greatest of acknowledgments.

This initiative has inspired Mahir AKKAYA, who now invites everyone to participate in this unique accomplishment. By acquiring one of the artist’s works, part of which is already displayed in the most prestigious locations around the world, you contribute to preserving this heritage. These sanctuaries are also eager to receive more paintings. In this regard, you will benefit from a special privilege if you decide to make a donation to one of these seven sanctuaries. Mahir AKKAYA will facilitate communication with each responsible party and respect your choice, whether you prefer to assign your donation to another site or keep this treasure within your own collection. A rare and precious opportunity.

The donations made by Mahir AKKAYA, recognized as a benefactor, have been warmly welcomed at the Vatican as well as by the dignitaries of the religious sanctuaries. They expressed their willingness to receive more paintings. He has therefore engaged with his elected friends and religious leaders, who have shown their support for this initiative. During their meeting, His Holiness Pope Francis expressed the desire for these works to continue being displayed in other holy places or with believers and enthusiasts, a wish that is also dear to the artist.

These dignitaries also held these works of art in their hands to admire them up close. These paintings, of exceptional beauty and unique character, will be displayed in the seven holy sites mentioned earlier. This is a remarkable exception, as, generally, the leaders of sanctuaries never allow the exhibition of paintings, whether temporary or permanent.

His vision is supported by his many long-time friends, whether they come from the political world: ministers, members of parliament, MEPs, senators, as well as prominent religious figures such as: Pope Francis, Monsignors, archbishops, bishops, canons, and the President of the Great Mosque of Strasbourg. All have endorsed this initiative and sent him letters of support and recommendation, thus facilitating his access to all the dignitaries he met.

Such an initiative is unprecedented, as it had never been carried out in this form, giving this collection a unique and exclusive character.

Photos of the two audiences at the Vatican as well as the donations of paintings to the personalities of the seven holy sites are illustrated on this website.

All correspondence, including letters of thanks, recommendations, and support from various personalities, is also available on the site.

All this confidential information is secured on the site and is only accessible after submitting a request via the contact form to Mahir AKKAYA.