(zaman) - The historic visit of Pope Benedict XVI to Turkey is worth billions of dollars according to tourism pundits, reports Trend.
Almost every instant of the momentous visit, the pontiff's first-ever visit to a Muslim country, were broadcast live worldwide. This is interpreted as a serious yet inexpensive contribution to the promotion of Turkey.
The messages of peace and reconciliation between Islam and Christianity the pope gave in particular during the visit as well as those regarding the Catholic and Orthodox churches raise expectations for the tourism sector in the coming period.
Authorities from the sector say that the papal visit was an invaluable opportunity offered to Turkey.
Tourist spots in Turkey such as the Blue Mosque, where Benedict XVI unexpectedly turned to Mecca in a gesture, the Hagia Sophia and the House of Virgin Mary near Ephesus where the pontiff visited are expected to attract huge interest from the Western and Christian world.