Pope Francis to Visit Groundbreaking Vatican Pavilion at Venice Biennale Inside Women’s Prison

The Vatican's pavilion, featuring controversial artist Maurizio Cattelan, will host Pope Francis in a historic visit, showcasing art by inmates and international artists.

The Vatican pavilion at the Venice Biennale, located in a women's prison on Giudecca Island, features lead artist Maurizio Cattelan, known for his provocative works.
Pope Francis will visit the pavilion on April 28, marking the first pontifical visit to the Biennale, with the event set to include tours led by inmates.
Artworks include a large-scale photograph of Cattelan's feet on the prison chapel's facade and installations by other artists reflecting themes of freedom and confinement.
Inmates, transformed into tour guides, share their personal stories and artistic contributions, enhancing the emotional impact of the exhibition.
The exhibition aims to foster dialogue and empathy, bridging the gap between the public and the incarcerated through art.