Source: BBC News

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/6054958.stm

The Vatican has confirmed that Pope Benedict XVI will travel to Turkey in November, his first visit to a predominantly Muslim country.

The Pontiff will visit Ankara, Izmir, Istanbul and ancient Ephesus during the trip, which will begin on 28 November.

The trip has been overshadowed by a row over remarks he made about Islam.

The visit, which will run until 1 December, is the result of an official invite by the Turkish government.

The Pontiff will begin his tour with a one-night stay in Ankara, capital of the officially secular state. The second night will be spent in Ephesus - home to an ancient Christian community.