Bones of St Francis of Assisi go on public display in Italy

In a moment of deep spiritual significance, the mortal remains of St. Francis of Assisi are on public display in Assisi, Italy, marking the 800th anniversary of his death. From February 21 to March 22, pilgrims from around the world are visiting the Lower Basilica of St. Francis to venerate the saint

whose life of poverty, humility, and love for creation continues to inspire the Church.

The bones are preserved in a nitrogen-filled plexiglass reliquary placed before the altar. Although devotion to Francis has endured for centuries, his remains have rarely been seen. They were displayed publicly only once before, briefly in 1978 to a limited group. This historic exposition has drawn immense interest, with hundreds of thousands reserving places to pray before the relics.

Born in Assisi in 1181 or 1182, Francis renounced wealth to live among the poor and founded the Order of Friars Minor. Known as the patron saint of animals and the environment, he remains one of Christianity’s most beloved figures.

This commemoration invites more than remembrance. It calls believers to renewed commitment to the Gospel values Francis embodied: simplicity, compassion, peace, and joyful trust in God.