On 17th April, the eleventh NATO Regional Cooperation Course (NRCC-11) ended the week dedicated to the study of the three great monotheistic religions, by visiting the Great Mosque in Rome and the Synagogue, after having attended the Papal Audience at the Vatican on Wednesday.
A delegation, composed of some 200 participants from the NATO Defense College (NDC), had the honour of attending the weekly General Audience with His Holiness Pope Francis, who kindly addressed a word of welcome to the NDC. SC124 and NRCC-11 Members were joined for this important occasion by their families, Faculty Advisers and College staff.
The Papal Audience is regarded as a vital part of the NDC’s academic programme, during which Course Members, regardless of their religious beliefs, receive the Apostolic Blessing from the Holy Father. In this unique and enriching experience, participants from a variety of cultural backgrounds are offered an opportunity to experience first-hand the spiritual significance of Catholic institutions and customs. Following the audience in St. Peter’s Square, Course Members, Staff and families visited the Vatican Museums.
On the following day, during the visit to the Great Mosque, NRCC-11Course Members learned about the history of Europe’s largest mosque and gained insights into the Islamic religion and culture, through an interesting briefing and a guided tour. The Mosque’s library holds a large collection of valuable copies of the Holy Book of the Quran, as well as encyclopaedias concerning the Sharia and Arab-Muslim history.
In the afternoon, the visit focused on the Synagogue and its museum. An expert guide introduced the group to the main customs and traditions of Judaism, after which Course Members were able to admire the historical and cultural heritage preserved in the Jewish Museum.
These visits have been fundamental to strengthening the spirit of mutual understanding and respect among Course Members, and in building an active and constructive dialogue among different cultures and religions.
NDC Public Affairs Office
(Prepared by Ms Moica Fornari, ITA C)
NATO Defense College 
