John Paul II traveled constantly when becoming Pope, quickly establishing himself as an instantly recognizable figurehead to the world's largest Christian community visiting over 100 countries. This desire for closeness with his followers almost led to his death. In 1981 he was shot and seriously wounded by a Mehmet al-Agca, a Turkish fanatic, with no clear motivation, in St Peter's square. After a long recovery The Pope visited and forgave his would-be assassin.