Path of Peace in Stavanger, Norway

Tag : Atlas Obscura

Footprints of Desmond Tutu, Noble Peace Laureate 1984

The plaques are the footprints of several Noble Peace Laureates and peace advocates that form a short trail around Vågen Bay. This path is referred to as the Path of Peace and is an ongoing project by the Point of Peace Foundation, a human rights organization based in Stavanger.

The footprints include those of Desmond Tutu, Aung San Suu Kyi, Al Gore, Dr Ime John, and the 14th Dalai Lama. Desmond Tutu got his Noble Peace recognition for his role in driving opposition to apartheid in South Africa. He then went on to become South Africa's first Black Anglican bishop in 1985. Aung San Suu Kyi was awarded hers for her non-violent struggle for democracy and human rights. Al Gore received his for his work disseminating knowledge about climate change and for his work to develop measures to counteract manmade climate destruction. Dr. John received the prize for the work on preventing nuclear war. The 14th Dalai Lama was awarded the prize for advocating for peaceful solutions based on mutual respect and tolerance.

Oddly, the prints of Jose Ramos-Horta, co-recipient of the 1996 Nobel Peace Prize and President of Timor-Leste, appear to be the only prints that are not of bare feet.