Bangladesh has marked a significant milestone in cultural diplomacy with the opening of ‘Echoes of Bengal – Art for Peace Pilgrimage’ at Rome’s historic Palazzo della Cancelleria, becoming the first Bangladeshi art exhibition to be hosted under Vatican patronage. 

Organised by HerNet Foundation and HerNet Fine Arts, the exhibition officially opened on 3 July and will run until 19 July.

The inauguration was attended by Royal Prince Hugo Windisch Graetz, marking the first time a royal prince has joined a Bangladeshi art exposition in Rome. The event also brought together the Vatican Nuncio, bishops, ambassadors, diplomats, European art critics and collectors, underscoring the exhibition’s international and diplomatic significance.

Curated by Alisha Pradhan, the exhibition showcases works by established and emerging Bangladeshi artists alongside international contributors, celebrating Bengal’s artistic heritage while promoting dialogue, peace and cultural exchange. The Prince was seen engaging with artists and exploring the exhibition, expressing appreciation for both the artworks and traditional Bangladeshi attire.

Adding to its prestige, Echoes of Bengal is being presented alongside an exhibition dedicated to Leonardo da Vinci at the Palazzo della Cancelleria, providing Bangladeshi artists with a rare platform on one of Europe’s most respected cultural stages and further strengthening Bangladesh’s global cultural presence.