Stark images of violence against women — including an "adulteress" being stoned to death in Iran — were on display in Hamilton to highlight International Women's Day.

The graphic photographs from around the world were exhibited outside the library by Amnesty International and the Women's Resource Centre (WRC) to raise awareness of International Women's Day, over the weekend.

Amnesty executive director Lucy Attride-Stirling urged passers-by to take a good look at the pictures and sign letters of protest to help women in desperate situations in other countries. She told them about a 13-year-old rape victim recently stoned to death in Iran for "adultery" and young girls sold as sex slaves after being born into poverty.

The display also asked people to focus on an issue closer to home — domestic violence. One poster depicted a woman with a split lip and black eye — beaten for failing to have dinner ready on time.

"Somebody asked me if the women in the photographs were actors. I said: "No, this is real'," said Ms Attride-Stirling. Victims of domestic violence and sexual assault in Bermuda can get help from the WRC. Call 295-7273.