Opening of the “Paths of the Soul” Photo Exhibition in Vienna; Emphasis on the Spiritual, Human, and Dialogic Capacities of the Arbaeen Walk and the Way of St. James
The “Paths of the Soul” photo exhibition, aimed at exploring and comparing two of the world’s great pilgrimage traditions—the Arbaeen Walk and the Christian Way of St. James (Camino)—was inaugurated on the evening of Friday, July 31, 2026, at the Iranian Wisdom House in Vienna. Attended by diplomats, researchers, and enthusiasts of religious studies and intercultural dialogue, the event highlighted the profound impact of these spiritual journeys. Dr. Reza Gholami, the Cultural Attaché of Iran in Austria, described walking pilgrimages as an inner journey for self-reflection and ethical growth, calling Arbaeen an unparalleled manifestation of human solidarity and unconditional service that can inspire the global community. Similarly, Peter Haider, a veteran guide of the Camino, portrayed the Way of St. James as a symbol of peace and a school for practicing tolerance, emphasizing the transformative power of long walks on mental and spiritual restoration. Dr. Hisham Al-Alawi, the Iraqi Ambassador to Austria and the event’s special guest, characterized Arbaeen as the world’s largest annual human gathering, noting that its core message of safeguarding human dignity and resisting oppression transcends religious and national boundaries to welcome followers of diverse faiths. Alongside a Q&A session, the event showcased 30 photographs of the Arbaeen Walk, 10 photographs of the Camino, and several short films, all aimed at strengthening interfaith dialogue and promoting shared human values.
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