Generous hospitality of imam in Türkiye’s Duzce impresses Italian traveler

Nicolo Guarrera, an Italian traveler on a world tour, was deeply touched by the kindness of an imam in Türkiye, who offered him shelter and food when he sought refuge at a mosque. Guarrera shared the touching story on his social media, where it quickly went viral.

The 29-year-old traveler, who began his journey from Italy to explore the world, arrived in Duzce while facing harsh weather. Seeking a place to rest, Guarrera approached the Kirazli Village Mosque, where he hoped to set up his tent in the mosque’s garden.

Welcoming gesture at mosque

Upon meeting Imam Hilmi Yilmaz, Guarrera explained his need to rest in the mosque’s garden. Noticing that the traveler‘s clothes and shoes were wet, Yilmaz, after consulting with the mosque’s congregation, invited Guarrera to stay inside the mosque for shelter.

Guarrera spent four nights in the mosque, and during his stay, Imam Yilmaz went above and beyond to offer the traveler comfort, sharing food and ensuring his well-being. Guarrera later shared a video on his social media, with hundreds of thousands of followers, praising the imam’s generosity.

Heartwarming encounter: Turkish culture shines

Imam Yilmaz, speaking to the Anadolu Agency (AA), emphasized that hospitality is a cornerstone of both Turkish culture and Islamic values. He recounted how he took care of Guarrera’s muddy shoes by cleaning them at the mosque’s fountain. When Guarrera tried to help, Yilmaz, refusing his assistance, said: “You are our guest, and you are a priority.”

“Afterward, I offered him food that I had brought from home,” Yilmaz said. “Later that evening, I went to the mosque to read the Quran before the night prayer. As I was reading, he got up from where he was sitting and came to the second row to listen peacefully.”

Italian traveler, Turkish imam connect

Guarrera, impressed by the imam’s hospitality, asked about Islam, and Yilmaz took the opportunity to explain aspects of the faith. Guarrera showed a keen interest, and their conversation led to a lighthearted exchange of names.

Yilmaz jokingly suggested, “Your name is Nicolo, but let’s call you Muhammad Nicolo.” Guarrera smiled and replied, “Then my name will be Ibrahim Nicolo.”

The two shared a warm moment, and Guarrera expressed his gratitude for the imam’s generosity. “He honored the rights of being a guest, and we did our best to care for him,” said Imam Yilmaz.

Guarrera’s experience in Duzce is a shining example of the power of cultural exchange and hospitality. His story not only reflects the kindness of one individual but also highlights the welcoming spirit found in Turkish culture. As he continues his world tour, Guarrera will surely carry the memory of his time in Türkiye and the kindness he encountered along the way.